Archived Forums

Hi Tyger, I just tried to post a reply but not sure what's happened to it. It may have come to you as a private message, but it was my intention to post it on the boards as normal, so apologies for that.For the benefit of anyone else in the same situation, basically I said I'm not sure where you'd stand with getting adoption pay (similar to maternity pay) in your situation, but in any case you may qualify for tax credits - have a look at the direct.gov website. You may also get an adoption allowance, and maybe disability living allowance if the child has problems - emotional or behavioural as well as physical. Then there's child benefit and a settling in grant paid by the placing authority which is to help with the cost of beds, buggies etc.As for work, some mums I know have trained as teaching assistants as this fit in with school hours, but having read your post again, as you're freelance it would probably be possible to work things around your child.You've time to accumulate some savings, just don't save too much money, as this will be taken into account when it is decided whether you're eligible for certain benefits, and adoption allowance! If you do manage to save more than a few thousand pounds, my advice would be to pay some off your mortgage instead.Sounds like you have a lot to offer, and finances - or lack of them- shouldn't stop SS considering you.Good luck!Papergirl x

Tyger you do have a job - you are self employed - lots of people are these days. The LA hasnt actually said no has it ? Maybe what you need to give them is something like a review of your earnings over the last 5 years or so so they can see you you have a steady income stream. To be honest I think free lance work is actually good as you can pick and choose your hours so maybe you could say something about that. Your biggest problem may be how to fund your adoption leave.Remember that there will be things like child benefit and possibly tax credits. Some children also carry adoption allowance. I am about to return to work and will have a cut in earned income of 50%, its the benefits which make it possibleno you arent being irresponsible, you just have to think a bit more about where your income would come from. And there are other agenciesgood luck

Thank you so much Serrakunda and Papergirl!Tygerx

Brilliant news - the LA has accepted me onto the prep course!

Congratulations! Prep courses are really interesting, and a chance to make friends with fellow adopters - I'm still in touch with some of those on my course. Most of the courses have a mixture of couples and singles, so don't worry about being the odd one out.

well donesometimes you just have to hold your nerve !

It's 'funny', now I have had some good news, I feel really ambivalent and conflicted about moving forwards - scared and unsure.

everybody has wobbles and worriespart of the purpose of prep course is to sort through some of this. Doing prep doesnt commit you - give it a go and see how you feel afterwardsParenthood is scary however it happens

Yes, really good advice, thank you Serrakunda.