This week’s interview is with David. He’s at the start of the assessment process and shares with us how he’s found it so far. You can follow his journey on Instagram @single.gay.dad .
Introduce yourself
My name is David, I am 34 years old. I’m originally from Swansea but have lived in Cardiff for 7 years.
Was your agency a local authority or voluntary agency?
Local authority.
How many agencies did you consider before you found the one you wanted to go with?
I didn’t consider any other agency. Once I read through the website and spoke to someone about my enquiry, I felt very comfortable with this one.
Did you read any adoption stories before you started? If so where? (eg blog, Instagram, books)
Yes, I follow a few adoption profiles on Instagram. I read some stories on blogs via google etc.
What was your biggest worry before you started?
My biggest worry was whether I could do this on my own. Would there be extra checks because I was single? How would people (friends/family/work colleagues) react when I told them?
What has the assessment involved so far?
I went to an initial information evening then put in my application form. I attended a three day training course and am currently having fortnightly appointments with my social worker so she can get to know me in order to prepare my PAR. This involves talking about every aspect of my childhood through to my current life. I also have to book my medical with my GP.
How have you found it?
I’ve found everything very informative up to now. I’ve read blogs that say it is very intrusive but I haven’t found that so far. I still have a lot more social work meetings to go so I’ll reserve judgement til they’re all done.
What has been the most difficult part about the assessment?
Nothing has been that difficult so far. The training was hard going as it was a lot of information in a short period. The topics were tough but it was all very useful.
How long has it been from making your initial enquiry to now?
I made my initial enquiry in August 2019 so five or six months.
What advice would you give someone considering adoption?
I’m still relatively early into the process but so far it’s been great. It’s scary at times but there are loads of people out there who can help you navigate the process. I would say it’s really important to have family and friends around you who you can voice any concerns to, or just have a chat to about the process. It’s important to have that support especially for me as a single adopter.
