Adoptive parents are being sought by the Council as part of National Adoption Week, from 5th – 11th November. The Council is encouraging anyone interested in adopting a child to get in touch for an informal chat.
The Council has already helped many people to take steps towards adopting a child but many more families are needed. The next adoption information evening will be held on Tuesday 13th November, 6.15pm in Bath.
Sarah Acheson, the Council’s Deputy Manager of the Family Placement Team said, “We welcome people who are interested in giving a child a home through adoption. The first step is to contact our team at Bath & North East Somerset Council to have an informal discussion and we can answer any questions.
“We may also invite you to an information evening. We hold these every couple of months so that people who want to find out more about adoption can come along and hear from social workers and experienced adopters about what is involved. We aim to have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere so that people can ask all the questions they wish to. Council staff explain what the next steps are and talk about some of the challenges in adoption but also the rewards.”
People who are interested in becoming an adoptive parent can contact Ruth Martin at the Council on 01225 395332 or [email protected]
Councillor Dine Romero (Lib-Dem, Southdown), Cabinet Member for Early Years, Children, and Youth, said, “Adoptive parents have a crucial part to play in helping young people and making a positive difference to their lives, giving them the opportunity to enjoy their childhood and prepare them for adult life. The Council hopes that people will want to find out more about welcoming a young person in need into their lives.”
Kerry and Brian attended one of the Council’s open evenings to help them understand the process and learn about how rewarding being an adoptive parent can be.
“The open evening was extremely informative with the opportunity to ask all sorts of questions to find out whether being an adoptive parent is for you. One of the key things which attracted us was the opportunity to change the life of a young person and bring-up someone in great need through a safe, loving environment.
“Anyone who does decide they want to become an adoptive parent must have an assessment. The Council does this very sensitively and supportively. We understand the need for these to be thorough. After being accepted to become adoptive parents we are now looking forward to adopting a beautiful little girl. We are very aware there will be challenges ahead but we are confident with our background training, support groups, reading materials and guidance from social workers we are well equipped to give her a loving, safe, fun and supportive home where through time we hope she will grow to love us as we do her and see us as her mum and dad.”
