Can you adopt with a criminal record?

[cjgreen7]

I’m 30 years old and DH and I have decided not to have our own children and would like to consider adoption by the time we are both 35+. I’ve always loved the idea of adoption and like the idea of adopting an older child (children) between the ages of 3-6 but I have a criminal record for drink driving when I was 18 so would I not be able to because of this?

[DistantDream]

Unlikely for an offence like that, sorry.

[frenchtwister]

I had the exact same issue and flew through approval. I declared it from day 1 so there were no surprises on my police checks.

We spent a lot of time discussing how much I regretted my stupid mistake and that nothing like that had even come close to happening again.

I was at the very low end of the scale, but it definitely doesn't rule you out. I would suggest you give a few VA/LA a quick call as they can better advise you.

[Ted27]

The only criminal convictions that would absolutely rule you out are offences against children and certain sexual offences against adults.

I think its worth asking the question of an agency.
Whilst I no way condone drink driving, I think much depends on the exact offence and the sentence. For example I think there is a huge difference between a new eighteen year old driver being a bit stupid , maybe speeding or running a red light resulting in a fine, and no offences since, and a hit and run or accident where there were serious injuries or fatality with a custodial sentence

[Italiangreyhound]

OP please check for yourself with adoption agencies in your area. But you may wish to check out this page...

www.first4adoption.org.uk/who-can-adopt-a-child/10-common-misconceptions-squashed/

Under adoption with a criminal record...

"If you have a criminal caution or conviction for offences against children or certain sexual offences against adults then you will not be able to adopt but, with the exception of these specified offences, a criminal record will not necessarily rule you out. The key is to be totally honest in your application.

Agencies will give consideration to the type of offence, when it was committed, the extent to which it has a bearing on being a parent and whether it was revealed at the time of application and how you have reflected on your past actions.

You cannot apply to become an adoptive parent if you or anyone living in your household has a criminal conviction or has been cautioned for specified criminal offences against children and/or some sexual offences against adults.

Checks are taken up through the Disclosure and Barring Service, local authorities and other agencies. Agencies will discuss with you any convictions that are recorded against you."

[cjgreen7]

Thank you all so much for the replies :)

That sounds positive then as I wasn’t too sure regarding that. I was 18 and clearly too immature and stupid to be driving it wasn’t that I hit anyone or caused an accident whilst driving I was pulled over whilst driving back from a friends house after drinking.

I will definitely look into finding an agency as it’s probably better to find out for sure now.