Local Charity Supports National Adoption Campaign

10 years after the first National Adoption Week St. Francis' Children's Society says permanent families are needed now more than ever

National Adoption Week 5-11 November 2007

St. Francis' Children's Society is using the 10th anniversary of National Adoption Week to remind people that there is still a shortage of permanent families for some children in care.

The adoption agency is looking for families for all children, and particularly those of black or dual heritage backgrounds.

There are more than 4,000 children across the UK needing adoption every year. The annual UK-wide campaign, organised by the British Association for Adoption & Fostering (BAAF), aims to raise awareness of adoption and encourage potential parents to come forward.

Chris Large, Marketing Officer at St. Francis' Children's Society, says:

"Right now we need adoptive families for all kinds of children. Every child is special and needs to grow up in a loving, secure family. But many have had a very difficult or chaotic start in life and desperately need stability."

The process for becoming an adoptive parent is rigorous, and that is as it should be. But there are no blanket bans, so please don't think we'll turn you down because you're over 40, for example, single, or don't own your own your own home. What we really need are people who can offer a child or sibling group a loving and supportive family for life. People who can help a child recover from the reasons why they came in to care and can help them go on to thrive.

"Initially, we are simply asking people to come forward and find out more about adoption. If you think you might have what it takes, please pick up the phone today."

In conjunction with the week, the Society is holding a special Open Evening in Milton Keynes on 13th November from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. For more details call Chris Large on 01908 572734

David Holmes, Chief Executive of BAAF, says:

"Most of children who come into public care go home within weeks. But it is a sad fact that some children are simply unable to return to their birth family, because of neglect, abuse or perhaps just because their parents are unable to cope with being a parent. Adoption is one of the best ways we know of giving these children a family for life. Some of them have had traumatic experiences, others have learning difficulties or health problems and it's crucial that loving and permanent families are found for them."

Anyone interested in finding out more about adoption can call Chris Smith on 01908 572700, Email St Francis or visit St Francis' Children's Society Website

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