It’s National Adoption Week (12-18 October) and Adopt South West is appealing for potential adopters to come forward.

Research shows that lots of people have considered adoption, or would consider adopting in the future, but only 25% believed they would be eligible to in the South West.

People can adopt from a variety of backgrounds, including single parents, people from all religions, people from the LGBTQ+ community and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities.

The aim of National Adoption Week is to dispel the myths around who is eligible to adopt and highlight that, especially during the COVID pandemic, there are still children out there who are looking for their new family.

Councillor Steve Darling, Leader of Torbay Council, said; “As someone who was adopted as a baby, I fully support this annual campaign. Adoption is one of the most rewarding ways of making a difference to a child, it could transform their life and give them the safe and loving home they need.

“There are many misconceptions about adoption but marital status, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, employment status and already having children will certainly not exclude you from adopting. In fact often experience of disability is positively welcomed!”

Councillor Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Torbay Council, said; “The adoption process has changed over the years; it is now simpler and quicker, with lots of help and support along the way. There’s no such thing as the ‘ideal’ or ‘perfect’ adoptive family, love time and commitment are the most important attributes you can have and I’d urge people to find out more”.

There are children all across Torbay and the South West looking for loving homes, including sibling groups of two or more children.

Every month Adopt South West run virtual information sessions where you can talk to adoption social workers and families who adopt and find out more about the application process. Sessions are being held on:

• 20 October
• 30 October
• 2 November
• 11 November

To find out more about Adopt South West call 0345 155 1076 or visit www.adoptsouthwest.org.uk