I must have a clean criminal record.

Untrue.

People with criminal convictions will be considered although, obviously much will depend on the type and circumstances of the offence, how long ago it was committed and what sort of life the person has led since. It is unlikely a speeding ticket dispensed ten years ago, will bar you from adopting a child.

However, people with any offence against a child will not, for obvious reasons, be considered. People with violent offences will also find it harder to adopt.