Hannah’s Story – Two under two!

Hannah began her adoption journey in 2022 as a single applicant. Although the idea of adopting on her own felt a little daunting at first, she knew it was the right decision, especially after her former partner made it clear he didn’t want children. Determined to become a parent, Hannah decided to go forward alone.

Adoption was always something Hannah was familiar with, as both her father and her aunts were adopted. While she considered other routes to parenthood, she quickly realised that adoption was the best path for her.

To find out more, she attended an adoption information session. She already knew about the Foster for Adoption (FFA) route from a friend who had gone through the process. Hannah wanted to adopt a younger child or baby, and after speaking to a few different agencies, she was advised that working with a local authority agency like AiM was the best option for her goal.

After several conversations with her social worker, they agreed that FFA was the most suitable route. Hannah received comprehensive training, which covered areas such as early permanence, attachment theory, trauma, and contact with birth families. She also attended a regional support group where she heard directly from people who had adopted through FFA.

Throughout her adoption journey, Hannah had always been keen to adopt siblings and being one of 3 girls had meant she valued the importance of sibling relationships. Once approved, Hannah was approached about a little girl living in foster care with an adoption plan, with the added plan that her unborn sibling may potentially need a placement from birth via FFA care planning. The long-term hope was that the children could remain together.

After detailed discussions with her social worker and reflecting on her strong support system, Hannah felt confident that she could meet the needs of both children. She was also passionate about the importance of keeping siblings together, which is a priority for AiM.

“I felt like the process prepared me for parenthood—even more than if I’d had children biologically. My social worker was extremely supportive and honest with me the whole way through.”

Hannah’s son came home first at just 4 days old when he was discharged from hospital straight to Hannah’s care. Hannah supported him to maintain contact with his birth parents, whilst also building a relationship with her daughter who was still in foster care at this time. After positive relationship building and positive transitions, Hannah’s daughter came home 3 months later.

The bond between the two children formed quickly, and watching the relationship with them both during the transition period was a powerful experience for Hannah.

“Adopting siblings has been incredible. They support each other and share a special connection. Now, I get to see them grow up together.”

Hannah encourages anyone thinking about adoption to take the first step and to be open to the idea of adopting siblings.

“It is hard work, but it’s worth it. They’ll grow up with each other’s support and having that shared adoption experience will be so important for their identity.”