Caring for children is a physically and emotionally demanding task, so applicants need to have a reasonable degree of physical fitness, emotional stability and stamina. It is important that enquirers let us know about any health concerns as soon as possible, so these can be considered by our Medical Advisor, if necessary.
The most frequently occurring issues concern weight, smoking and the use of anti-depressants.
Furthermore, where obesity is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, there would be concerns about the impact of this on any children who might be placed in the family. There has been a very rapid rise in the rates of childhood obesity. This is associated with short and long term health problems, including diabetes, increased blood pressure, the development of cardiac risk factors and orthopaedic disorders. Children who are overweight are more likely to be bullied and to suffer problems of low self-esteem.
We recommend that anyone who wishes to adopt a child, and who is aware that they are in the obesity range, should make it their priority to seek advice about reducing weight. They should contact their GP practice with a view to getting an assessment of their weight problem and help with planning a reduction programme. GPs can suggest a range of interventions, depending on the cause and extent of the obesity. Losing weight is – and should be – a slow process, but it is worth bearing in mind that even a small loss of 10% of body weight, substantially reduces the risks to health.
Smoking
West Dunbartonshire Council does not operate a policy of refusing prospective applicants who smoke. However, there is a growing awareness of the health risks associated with passive smoking, especially for babies and young children. These risks are not significantly reduced by measures such as restricting smoking to one room in the house, and are only reduced by smoking outside. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), is rare, but smoking within households has been implicated in about 75% of cases.
Smoking also increases the rate of asthma, breathing problems, ear infections and cardio-vascular problems. Birth parents, who are involved in choosing a family for their child, may express a preference for non-smokers.
Prospective applicants, who smoke even a minimal amount, should consult their GP or Practice Nurse for advice about stopping. There are a number of anti-smoking measures available, along with supports for people going through the process.
Depression/Mental Health Problems
It is an inevitable part of life that at some point there will be an event, which is experienced as stressful and may lead to the person becoming temporarily depressed. Bereavements, illness and relationship problems are probably the most common reason.
The experience of infertility can also be extremely stressful and is akin to bereavement in the sense of grief and loss which may result. For some people medical intervention may be necessary, and their GP may have prescribed medication for them.
Prospective applicants who are receiving medication, for example anti-depressants, should discuss making any changes with their GP first to avoid any side effects or withdrawal symptoms. If depression has been severe or there have been repeated episodes, then applicants must consider how the stress of adoption or dealing with the emotional/behavioural difficulties that many children have, may aggravate any health problems.
