Who can adopt?
People from all walks of life living on the isle of man can apply to adopt through IOMAS.
Although IOMAS roots are Christian based, we are looking for applicants from any race, creed or religion (or none). You do not have a religious belief to adopt.
We welcome applicants who already have their own children, and applicants who are childless.
People often believe in order to adopt they have to be “super parents” or have led lives which have been relatively uneventful. Those who go on to successfully adopt come from many different backgrounds and life experiences. We help you look at your lives to date and determine what strengths (and any vulnerabilities) you will bring to the adoption task.
It is not necessary that you:
- own your own home
- are in full employment
- have children of your own or be childless
- are in a current relationship
You can be single or a married couple. On the Isle of Man a couple in a long term partnership cannot both adopt under Manx adoption law. However, both parties can apply to be assessed as adopters and one apply to adopt the child and the other take out a residence order if the adoption takes place on the Isle of Man. If an English or Welsh adoption, the order could be granted in favour of both of you, and would then be recognised on the Isle of Man. Future revision of the Manx adoption law may change this anomaly to bring this in line with current UK adoption legislation.
Both parties must be aged 21 or over. There is no upper age limit, but wherever possible, we try to place a child within a family where the age gap would not be too unusual in the wider community.
Are there any precluding factors?
Only One: If you have a criminal record which relates in any way to children you will not be allowed to adopt.
Other than this, there are no factors – including medical conditions - which would automatically exclude you from applying. Where there is an issue you are concerned about, talk to us.
We are required by law to undertake a number of checks relating to you and your family, and will ask you to undergo a full medical. We will also seek a number of references – including from friends who have known you for a period of time, and from a family member.
For more detailed information please down load our Welcome pack or contact us. If you have any initial questions, do please ring or email us.
If you would like a visit from one of our adoption social workers please complete the "Registration of Interest" form and return it to us. This is an indication that you would like to learn more. It does not commit you to anything else at this stage. |
