Just thought I'd post an update
We phoned round lots of agencies - some borough councils and some private agencies - and ended up at an information evening at Ealing Borough Council a few weeks ago on the grounds that they were actually starting new "recruitment" process. We then had an hour long phone interview with a social worker before we were approved for a home visit which happened today. So now we wait to see whether we are going to be accepted into the formal adoption preparation and application process - fingers crossed....
If you're thinking about it, try
www.BAAF.org.uk for details of agencies, and remember in London your local borough council probably won't be able to help and you will need to look at a neighbouring (or further afield) council or a private agency.
I'll let you know how I get on