The Westmorland Gazette is running a campaign to find permanent homes for children waiting to be adopted. Here, with the help of experts, TOM MURPHY reveals that many of the things people consider to be a barrier to them adopting children are, in fact, not obstacles at all...

THERE are a number of common misconceptions surrounding who can, and cannot, adopt children. Here, we dispel some of those myths.

I'm single

Single people can adopt, whatever their gender. Many single people and unmarried couples have successfully adopted children.

I'm too old

Adopters need to be over 21 but there is no upper age limit. We will expect you to have the health and vitality to see your children through to an age of independence. Consideration will be given to your age comparative to the age of the child you want to adopt; younger children are more likely to be placed with younger parents.

I can't adopt because I'm gay

Whether you are heterosexual, lesbian or gay is not a factor in the decision making process.

I work full time/unemployed so can't adopt

Your financial circumstances and employment status will always be considered as part of an adoption assessment, but low income, being unemployed or employed do not automatically rule you out. You can be an adoptive parent while on benefits.

I can't adopt because I have a criminal record

If you have a criminal caution or conviction for offences against children or certain sexual offences against adults then you will not be able to adopt but, with the exception of these specified offences, a criminal record will not necessarily rule you out. The key is to be totally honest in your application.

I have children living at home

Having children of your own will certainly not exclude you from adopting, whether they are living at home with you or have grown up. Consideration will be given to the age gap between your own children and the age of the child(ren) you wish to adopt.

I smoke

Smoking will not necessarily rule you out from adopting. Consideration will be given to this and to all health and lifestyle related issues. We will want to know of any specific health risks to you or to the children who may be placed in your care.

I am disabled

Being disabled should not automatically exclude anyone from becoming an adopter and it is widely recognised that disabled people can provide a very loving home for a child.