Do not be put off from adopting a child by coronavirus, Northamptonshire County Council urges

Anyone from Northamptonshire interested in adopting a child is being urged to go ahead as the council is welcoming new enquiries despite coronavirus.

The pandemic has caused a decrease in the number of potential adopters coming forward, according to Northamptonshire County Council cabinet member for children's services Fiona Baker.

So the council is raising awareness of the need for more adoptive parents as part of National Adoption Week, which is this week (October 12-18).

Cllr Baker said: "This National Adoption Week we would urge people to seriously consider if they are in a position to grow their family and offer a forever home to vulnerable children.

“We’re particularly keen to hear from those who could offer a home to siblings, as often sibling groups in care have to be separated from each other due to the shortage of people who can offer more than one child a home."

Adopters can provide the loving and stable home every child needs as well as a lifelong family to stick by them, give them love and support while helping them thrive to become independent young people.

Neil, who adopted his daughter with his wife just under a year ago, said: “As soon as our daughter was placed with us we knew adoption was absolutely the right thing to do.

"Every time she hugs us, it brings a tear to my eye. She doesn’t realise the sheer happiness she is bringing to us."

While second time adopter Jonathan added: “Go into it, eyes open. It’s so rewarding to know that you are giving that child a chance and also fulfilling your dream of having a family.”

A comprehensive training and support package is provided by the council to give adoptive parents all the help they need to succeed.

To find out more, visit northamptonshire.gov.uk/adoption or call 01604 361843.