This National Adoption Week (14 – 20 October) Milton Keynes Council is joining local authorities and adoption agencies across the UK to raise awareness of adoption.
The latest analysis published by the Government shows that in England, there are nearly twice as many children awaiting adoptive families as there are adopters.
The figures reveal that the East of England currently has 420 children waiting to be adopted.
The latest statistics also reveal that of the children awaiting adoption:
● 29% are aged over 5 years
● 3% have a disability
● 16% are from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds
● 61% are in sibling groups
Councillor Zoe Nolan, Cabinet Member for Children and Families said: “Adoption transforms the lives of those it touches and this National Adoption Week we’re asking anyone who has ever thought about adoption to find out more.
"I know from my own wider family how rewarding it can be for everyone involved.
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"Many children needing adoption have experienced neglect, trauma and adverse experiences. All of these children need a loving, stable home and many need families where they can live with their siblings.
"Being an adoptive parent can be challenging but it brings great rewards. Whatever your personal or professional circumstances are, if you think you have the stability and energy to give a vulnerable child a loving home, please get in touch.”
In April this year, Milton Keynes Council launched a new adoption service in partnership with Central Bedfordshire called Adoption Connects.
A dedicated adoption support team now helps families living in Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes. Adoption Connects offers a wide range of services from free training and e-learning, newsletters, advice and information through to financial support and regular social events.
If you’re interested in finding out more, contact Adoption Connects by email enquiries@adoptionconnects.co.uk, calling 0300 300 8090 or by clicking here
