Adoption West looking for more adopters to come forward during National Adoption Week
During National Adoption Week (16-22 October 2023) we are celebrating how adoption has transformed over the decades
During National Adoption Week (16-22 October 2023) we are celebrating how adoption has transformed over the decades, by sharing the stories of adopted people and highlighting the positive impact it has had on their lives, whilst recognising the challenges they have faced along the way; in a short film, which brings to life the transformational power of a permanent family home.
The film can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/@adoptionwest5989 (opens new window)
This national campaign is supported locally by Adoption West, the regional adoption agency for Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire.
In the Adoption West area over the last 18 months, we have experienced fewer people coming forward to adopt which sadly means children will wait even longer. There is still a huge need for more people to come forward to adopt.
At any one time, we are always looking for families for 50 - 60 children. We know adoption is life-changing for both the children and the families and to make this commitment can take people some time, so we want to hear from people who think adoption might be in their future, even if they aren't quite ready to take the next step. We are here to provide you with up-to-date information about the children waiting, what adoption is like today, and the support and training available.
Alison Lewis Service Director at Adoption West.
Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, said: We need more people to come forward as potential adopters and provide that warm, stable and permanent home for our children in need of this. Adoption is rewarding and can have such a positive impact, supporting children to thrive and achieve their goals. We have many wonderful stories of adoptive families and we want to ensure we have many more in the future.
Isabelle (adopted in the 1980s), who features in the film alongside her adopted son Nathanial (adopted in the 2010s), said: Having been adopted myself, and then going on to adopt my two children, I know the importance of having an open dialogue around adoption. I want my kids to grow up knowing where they came from, and where possible, maintaining contact with their birth families. I didn't know about my birth mother until I was much older, meaning I always had questions about my identity and history. Adoption is not a line in the sand between one life and another. It is something that should be open and celebrated - and I'm passionate about doing that with both my children.
Adoption West is keen to hear from people considering adoption, and encourages them to attend one of their Information Sessions taking place over the coming weeks details can be found at www.adoptionwest.co.uk/events (opens new window), alternatively they can call or email and a member of the team will be happy to have any informal chat; 03303 550 333 or info@adoptionwest.co.uk (opens new window).
To find out more about adopting in your area, or the support available, visit www.adoptionwest.co.uk (opens new window)
To find out more about National Adoption Week or to seek information or support, visit www.youcanadopt.co.uk/NAW2023 (opens new window)