Thinking about foster to adopt? Here’s a clear, honest look at the process, how long it might take, and what to expect—emotionally and practically.

Quick-Glance: 1-3 year foster to adoption timeline

What is Foster to Adopt?

Foster to adopt (sometimes called Early Permanence) is a route where you welcome a child into your home as a foster carer, with the hope—and sometimes the likelihood—that you’ll go on to adopt them. It’s designed to give children stability as early as possible, but it comes with uncertainty: the child may still return to their birth family if the court decides that’s best.

This route is open to single people and couples, and is often chosen by those who want to minimise moves for a child and are prepared for the emotional ups and downs.

The Step-by-Step Process

1. Enquiry, Training, and Registration

You’ll start by attending information events and meeting with agencies. If you’re interested in Early Permanence, you’ll usually do extra training—sometimes just a few hours, but it’s vital for understanding the risks and realities.

2. Assessment and Approval

This is the home study: social workers will visit, ask about your background, health, and support network, and check references. It’s thorough, but it’s also a chance to ask questions and get a feel for the process. Foster carers receive induction and ongoing training, as set out in the National Minimum Standards.

3. Matching and Placement

Once approved, you’ll be considered for children who need a foster to adopt placement. Timing here is unpredictable—sometimes it’s quick, sometimes it takes months. The match depends on the child’s needs, your circumstances, and the legal situation. You’ll be given all available information about the child’s circumstances to help you prepare.

4. Fostering Period

This is the heart of the uncertainty. The child lives with you as a foster carer. You’ll be called “mummy” or “daddy” for the child’s sake, but legally you’re still a foster carer. Contact with the birth family is common—often 2–4 times a week, for 1–2 hours per session, sometimes for many months. The aim is always reunification unless the court decides otherwise. You’ll be supported to manage contact and advocate for the child’s welfare.

5. Adoption Application and Order

If the court grants a placement order and there’s no realistic prospect of return to birth family, you can apply to adopt. The legal process usually takes 2–6 months, but can be longer if there are challenges or appeals.

Why Timelines Vary So Much

There are target times, but real life rarely fits neatly. Some families move from placement to adoption in 6–9 months; others wait 18 months or more. Delays can happen if:
The birth family is given more time to make changes
There are legal challenges or appeals
Social worker or court backlogs slow things down

Birth Family Contact: What to Expect

Contact is a big part of foster to adopt. It can be emotionally tough—sometimes several times a week, sometimes for many months. You’ll need to support the child through these visits, even if it’s hard for you. Some families find contact stops quickly; for others, it continues until the adoption order is made. The fostering service will help you understand and manage contact arrangements.

Reunification: Facing the Uncertainty

There’s no fixed percentage for how many children return to birth family. The law is clear: the child’s welfare is paramount, and all options must be explored (see Re B-S [2013] EWCA Civ 1146). You need to be prepared for the possibility that, after months of caring, the child may go home. It’s emotionally demanding, but for some, it’s the right thing for the child.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Underestimating the emotional toll: The uncertainty can be draining. Build a strong support network and talk openly about your feelings.
Not planning for a long timeline: Some placements last well over a year before adoption. Consider your work, finances, and childcare.
Confusing fostering and adoption: You’re a foster carer first, with all the responsibilities and limitations that brings.
Not asking enough questions: Every local authority is different. Ask about contact, support, and what happens if things change.

Things to Consider Before You Start

Can you manage financially if the process takes longer than a year?
Do you have people around you who can support you emotionally and practically?
Are you comfortable with uncertainty and the possibility of reunification?
Are you ready to advocate for the child, even when it’s hard?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the process take?
It varies—some families move to adoption in under a year, others wait two years or more.

Can the birth family challenge the adoption?
Yes, until the adoption order is made, birth family can contest. The court will always consider the child’s welfare above all.

What happens if the child returns to birth family?
You’ll be supported through the transition, but it can be emotionally tough. It’s important to prepare for this possibility.

How is contact managed?
Contact is usually supervised and arranged by social services. Frequency and duration depend on the case.

What support is available?
You’ll have a social worker and, often, access to support groups and training. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Foster carers are entitled to ongoing training and development, and the fostering service must provide clear information and support.

Final Thoughts

Foster to adopt isn’t the easy route, but for many, it’s the most rewarding. It takes patience, resilience, and a big heart. If you’re prepared for the ups and downs, you can make a life-changing difference for a child—and for yourself.

If you have more questions or want to talk through your situation, Caira is here to help you navigate every step. Chat with her 24/7