Laura’s Story

Laura always knew she wanted to be a mum and being single didn’t stop her.

Before starting the process, Laura did lots of research and using a Regional Adoption Agency (RAA) made sense to her. An RAA works closely with the children’s teams in the local authorities to place children in that region. Laura also chose Adoption in Merseyside as she knew there was lots of support for families during and after the process.

During the stage 1 process, Laura had to complete an ‘all about me booklet’. This included writing up about her childhood, and life experiences and reflecting on her past. She said it was interesting looking back on her life and she appreciated what her parents had done for her during her childhood.

Laura also attended mandatory preparation training.

“Prep training was invaluable. There were lots of other people going through the process that are now friends for life. We still talk and meet up regularly for our kid’s birthdays and play dates.”

“I knew being a parent would be tough but having a strong support network including my family and other adoptive parents makes it a lot easier. Being a single adopter has made the bonding experience seamless, she only relies on me and my boundaries.

Laura had some childcare experience previously, so was able to feel more confident with changing nappies and doing the practical parenting role.

“I would recommend anyone thinking of adopting to do their research and speak to others who have been involved with adoption. Also, getting childcare experience is always useful and helps me feel more confident.”

The best part of the adoption process for Laura was seeing her daughter’s profile.

“It was such a strange feeling to know that this little girl was going to be my daughter. I knew it was right as soon as I saw her profile and when I got selected, I couldn’t stop crying, it was an amazing feeling”

“When she called me mummy for the first time in the supermarket and when she looks for me for care and reassurance, it makes me realise I am her mummy and she relies on me”

“Every night I write down something I don’t want to forget, and it’s going to be something we can remember together in years to come.”