waiting as need my bc to be older. should I be doing anything to increase our chances.

[Peach123plum]

Hi. Waited now for a year after my first phone call to my la. I have always wanted to adopt but as now had a bc need to wait till they are 3. (although all the forms say 2). Reading books, reading all threads on here and saving money. However feel should be doing more to increase our chances of being approved. Any advice welcome.

Does your LA have a childrens panel? Ours has one (not related to adoption) but you sit in on discussions about things like justice and schooling etc.

That might be a good idea?

Volunteering with youth services, hospices etc would be good for you an those you're helping.

Consider approaching another LA or VA who might only want you to wait until your LO BC Is 2.
Some LA's actively recruit within a 50 mile radius.

Peach123plum the waiting is not so bad. One thing we were asked about for both of us (DH and I) was experience of looking after other children, so experience of involvement with children's groups would be useful (I think). Are you a single parent or adopting with a partner? I think saving money and reading up is all helpful.

Good luck.

Adoping as a couple. Have voluntered once a month at our sunday school but may try something more maybe with the sure start centres. Sitting on children's pannel could be good and husband is looking at being school govoner. The waiting not too bad but think will try other la after christmas. My worry is that be told to go do something and come back at a later date, so trying to guess what that could be. From posts about dogs, booked dog in for training classes too. Thanks.

Peach123 - I would definitely try another LA. Also - by the time you go through the process and then are matched with a child - it will take a year...

Might just try our one again as was just one social worker I spoke too. However did read that a lot of children waiting are age 2 or over so may increase our chances if wait. I try after Christmas and potty training. Thanks.