Nearly four times as many people showed an interest in adoption in Gloucestershire following this year’s National Adoption Week. Thirty people enquired about adoption through Gloucestershire County Council during November –compared to an average of eight a month.
National Adoption Week – a nationwide campaign organised by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) took place from 1st–7th November. During the week, Gloucestershire County Council had stands at supermarkets and farmers’ markets around the county, and lots of coverage in the local media. As a result of this, 20 people expressed an interest inadoption at the stands and a further 10 got in touch through the county council’s website and following stories in the local papers and on the radio.
Cllr Paul McLain, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “This is great news for our looked after children in Gloucestershire. I’md elighted that so many big-hearted people keep coming forward. They have taken the first steps towards giving a child a loving home and the chance of a positive long term future.
“The authority has made significant strides in making the adoption process clearer and as straight forward as possible. We’ll be offering our new prospective parents every bit of support and advice they might need.”
Over the last 18 months, 32 children have been adopted in Gloucestershire, but many children are still left waiting for homes. The county council particularly needs to find families who would welcome older children and brothers and sisters.
There is no upper age limit to adopt and Gloucestershire County Council is keen to hear from married and unmarried couples, single people, lesbian and gay couples and individuals, those who have their own children, homeowners or those renting property.
Anyone wishing to find out more about adoption can contact Gloucestershire County Council’s Adoption Team on 01242 532597.
