Once you have considered the information, you will then apply for one of the most important parts of the procedure - the home study.

It is this part of adoption that often causes the most anguish for families because of the in-depth nature of the home assessment social worker's investigation into your application

During the initial visit, it is likely that the social worker will establish more details about your circumstances. It is also likely that at this point you will have to give your consent to have your police records checked. The police reference will include details of any offence even if it was many years ago.

Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar you from adopting, unless you have committed any offences against children. Many agencies will also take a dim view of a violent offences.

It is also likely that you will also be invited to attend some preparation training. How much training and what sort of training you get will depend on the adoption agency you are using.

Some applicants, as part of the assessments, will be invited to meet other potential adopters to get a better idea of what is involved.

The purpose of this training is to prepare you for the sort of problems you are likely to encounter when accepting an adopted child into your family. It is likely to include how to deal with an abused child.

During the home assessment, the social worker dealing with your case will have to fill out Form F

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