If you’re in your 20s and thinking about adopting a child or children? We’d love to help you.
We welcome adoption enquiries from people in their 20s, who are looking to raise and support a child or children into adult life.
Adoption Focus welcomes adopters of all ages and from all walks of life. If you’re single, married, cohabiting, divorced, renting, LGBTQ+, have children or not, are from a faith background or not, we’d love to hear from you. Your capacity to provide love and care is what we’re looking for. We’ll be with you every step of the way, with tailored training and expert advice. We’re here for life, supporting each step and long after adoption, whenever you need us.
Child adoption in your 20s
There is an urgent need for adopters of all ages and backgrounds, as there are currently thousands of children waiting for a loving and stable home.
Many people believe you have to be 30 or older to adopt children, however across the UK, people in their 20s are transforming children’s lives by providing a supportive family life.
If you’re in your 20s, you have so much to offer: energy, adaptability and an understanding of what it is like to still be figuring life out. Children need someone who understands them, who shows up everyday and helps them grow in a safe environment.
Benefits of adopting in your 20s
Adopters in their 20s are well represented and growing in number at Adoption Focus. The benefits of this type of adoption include:
• Parenting is physically demanding, if you’re in your 20s you have the stamina and energy to keep up.
• Being younger makes it easier for you to relate to a child or teenager, this is especially needed with children who have had a difficult start.
• Being in your 20s gives you the opportunity to be flexible and adaptable to your adopted child or children's needs.
Why trust Adoption Focus?
Adoption Focus is an independent charity, and one of the largest adoption agencies in the UK. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted on every inspection since we launched in 2009, we’re focused on providing the best support for both adopters and adoptees.
We’re passionate about inclusivity and welcome adoptive parents of all ages and backgrounds including couples, single parents, LGBTQ+, people with disabilities and more. We offer lifelong support to every adoptive family - you can contact us every weekday. We provide an extensive range of therapeutic services and highly recommended training programmes. We will walk with you throughout the adoption process and far beyond, as your children grow into adulthood.
Adopting in your 20s FAQs
What is the legal age limit to adopt a child?
You can adopt a child if you’re aged 21 or over. If you’re part of a couple looking to adopt, you both need to be 21 or over before you start the adoption process.
Can single people in their 20s adopt?
Yes, single parents can 100% adopt as long as they are above 21 years of age, you’re not required to be in a couple.
How do I find adoption agencies that work with younger parents?
Look no further, Adoption Focus works with younger parents. As long as you and your partner (if you have one) are aged 21 and over, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch or attend an information event.
What costs are involved in adoption?
The only costs involved with adoption in the UK is the medical with your GP (examination and report), or incidental costs like travel to meetings or events. All other aspects of the adoption process are covered such as the legal fees and court costs, and access to training courses. You may choose to take time off work during the process which may have financial implications.