Today is the start of National Adoption Week. This year it aims to educate and inform people on the process of modern adoption today, with a rounded, honest and inclusive portrayal of the journey.

Throughout the week Adopt South West our regional adoption agency will be showcasing the highs and lows and championing all the voices involved in the process that are often less heard. These include adopted children, adults and parents, birth parents, and the adoption and social care workforce that work tirelessly to get children into loving permanent homes.

Across Torbay, Devon, Plymouth and Somerset there are 60 children waiting for their forever home. Of these children waiting, 25 are in sibling groups, five children are from a mixed heritage and three have a disability.

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

Cllr 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 will transform their life and give them the safe and loving home they need”.

Cllr Cordelia Law, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Torbay Council, said; “During National Adoption Week I'd encourage as many people as possible to consider adoption. Making that initial enquiry, having that first conversation could set you on the path of doing something amazing – not only for you and your family, but for the children who are waiting for their forever family”.

Kath Drescher, Head of Adopt South West, said; “National Adoption Week is a great opportunity to get people talking about adoption. The majority of people adopting for the first time choose to take a single child into their family, usually a baby or toddler, but we also need people who can offer a safe, stable and loving home to siblings, children over four years old and children with additional needs. We know there can be extra challenges caring for these groups of children but it can also be really fulfilling, as we will be there with you all the way”.

Throughout the week are a number of online National Adoption Week events taking place aimed at adopters, birth families, adopted people and professionals. Each session has been designed to provide support, information and share experiences of the adoption journey.

Adopt South West particularly need more people to adopt brother and sisters, older children and children with additional needs.

Every month Adopt South West run virtual information sessions where you can talk to adoption social works and families who adopt and find out more about the application process. If you are interested in finding out more, please get in touch with Adopt South West.

For the latest National Adoption Week stories and information, follow the Adopt South West Facebook page.