Every child deserves to feel safe, loved and part of a family. For some children, adoption offers the stability, security and sense of belonging they need to thrive.

Health and social care trusts are responsible for supporting children and young people who cannot live with their birth families. Adoption helps provide these children with a permanent, loving family where they can grow, develop and look forward to a brighter future.

Adoption is a legal process that makes a child a full and permanent member of their new family. It is a lifelong commitment, but it can also be one of the most rewarding journeys you will ever take.

Who can adopt?

We welcome enquiries from people from all walks of life. You do not need to be married, own your own home, or already have children to be considered for adoption.

What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable and nurturing home.

Children waiting for adoptive families

Children of all ages need adoptive families, but there is a particular need for people who can provide loving homes for:

• Older children
• Brothers and sisters who need to stay together
• Children with additional or complex needs

Take the first step

If you’ve ever considered adoption, we’d love to hear from you.

Whether you’re ready to apply or simply want to find out more, HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care can help.

HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care works across all health and social care trusts to recruit, assess, train and support people who are considering adoption.

The service is made up of local HSC adoption teams who can answer your questions and guide you through every stage of the adoption journey.

How to contact the service

HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care

• Telephone: 0800 0720 137
• Email: hello@adoptionandfostercare.hscni.net
• Web: HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care

Or follow the service on social media:

• HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care on Facebook 
• HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care on X
• HSC NI Adoption and Foster Care on Instagram