We can only accept applications from people who live within a 60 mile radius of Edinburgh.

Age

One applicant must be 21 years old (Adoption (Scotland) Act 1978). It would be unusual for Scottish Adoption to accept an application from anyone younger than that.

Applications from anyone under 25 would take into account their particular circumstances and their reasons for considering adoption. Important factors would include the length of an existing relationship or the impact on future relationships, the applicant's life stage and maturity.

There is no upper limit in law. However the agency is required in all cases to consider whether an applicant is likely to retain the necessary health and vigour to raise a child to adulthood and beyond. The agency is guided by the practice rule of 40-years between parent and child. This is not definitive and we ask anyone affected to discuss it with us.

In relation to overseas adoption, we respect the conditions laid down by the country from which applicants hope to adopt.

Marital Status

The Adoption (Scotland) Act 1978 states that applicants can be:

• a married couple

• a single person

• a person still married but separated from their spouse because of ill health or whose spouse is incapable of understanding an adoption order

• the agency accepts applications from non-married couples who have a secure relationship. One partner would be the adopter and the other partner would be expected to legally secure parental responsibilities through an alternative route. In relation to overseas adoption, the agency respects the conditions laid down by the relevant country.

Health

Adopting a child is a lifelong commitment that requires energy, stamina and physical fitness. We as an agency must consider whether there is anything in an applicant's previous or current medical history that suggests that the placement of a child is contraindicated. Examples might include chronic medical conditions or mental health issues.
All applicants are asked to have a medical (done by their own GP) which is then considered by the agency's Medical Adviser.

Part of the home study will also include consideration of applicant's lifestyle generally, including in relation to 'healthy living'.

Other Health Factors

Given what is known about the effects of passive smoking on children, this agency does not place children under the age of two with applicants who smoke. Smoking and the management of it would in all cases be considered in terms of healthy living.

Accommodation

Our policy reflects the standards involved in public care and the needs of the children we place. It is expected that there will be a sufficient number of rooms to provide a separate bedroom for the child. (A room is defined as one having an external window and space for normal bedroom furniture). It is accepted that same sex children can share a room but children of different sex will need a separate room by early primary school age.

Other Factors

Certain pets such as pit bull terriers or rottweillers are considered dangerous and the agency and the local authorities consider them to be incompatible with the needs of the children we place.