A charity is urging compassionate individuals and families to consider adoption, offering children in need a second chance at a better life.
With 2,210 children currently waiting for adoption across the country, the demand for loving homes has never been more urgent.
In the North West alone, as of December last year, 318 children are still awaiting permanent families.
Kate Knowles, Head of Children’s Services at Caritas Care, said: “I know that we must sound like a broken record when we talk about the number of children waiting and the specific groups of children in need, but the situation is real. The numbers aren’t going down, they are going up.
“It’s heartbreaking to think that, after a difficult start in life, they are also waiting a long time for a family who loves them and somewhere they can belong.
“This situation must change. We urgently need adopters for children, especially those willing to adopt siblings, children over three years old, and those with mild to profound additional needs.”
Making a profound impact
The personal stories of adoptive parents highlight the profound impact that adoption can have on both children and families.
Sam, who has adopted four siblings, said: “Adopted children will have suffered a lot of loss already, including familiar people, places and things.
“They deserve to be with their siblings. Watching them grow up together is beautiful.”
Alison and Barbara adopted three children with profound additional needs.
They said: “The challenges are many and varied. One of ours was enabling our daughter to have suitable seating and head support.
“There are challenges you cannot know about until they happen but that would be the same with any child.
“Be organised and know who to contact for which aspect of your child’s care.”
Irene and Jack adopted their son Robert when they were both in their 50s.
Irene said: “It’s so rewarding. You discover things about yourself that you never knew. You find out that you can be quite resilient and resourceful.
“I’d encourage anyone thinking about adopting an older child to go for it. Don’t hold back.”
Comprehensive and unwavering support
Kate Knowles stressed the importance of providing stable homes for these vulnerable children.
She said: “The children who enter the care system come from diverse backgrounds and have unique personalities and circumstances.
“The one thing they all have in common is the need for a stable, nurturing and loving environment that only an adoptive family can provide.
“There are so many people out there who can do this and as an agency, we will support you all the way.”
Find out more
With 90 years of experience in finding adoptive parents for children and creating families, Caritas Care is committed to connecting caring individuals and families ready to open their hearts and homes to these deserving children.
If you’re interested in learning more about adoption and how you can create a loving future for a child or children in need, call the Adoption Services team on 0800 652 6955 or see www.caritascare.org.uk