Change a child's life, learn about adoption in Devon (From This is The West Country)

Change a child's life, learn about adoption in Devon

9:26am Wednesday 31st October 2012 in Devon

Torbay Council's adoption service is taking to the streets in November to try and encourage people to change a child's life and find out more about adopting.

The adoption team will be visiting venues across Devon and will kick start their recruitment campaign during National Adoption Week. This runs from  November 5 to 7, and is led by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF).

Torbay currently has a number of children waiting for people to adopt them. There is a shortage of adopters nationally. The council is currently looking for adopters from all backgrounds and levels of experience who can look after a variety of children. People are urgently required to adopt children of school age, as well as babies and toddlers.

There is also a need for permanent homes for up to three children so siblings can stay together.

A number of events will be held by Torbay Adoption Service during November so anyone considering adopting can find out more information. 

Councillor Chris Lewis, said: "We're looking for people from a wide range of backgrounds to offer children and young people loving and safe permanent homes. We will consider everyone - whether they are over 40, single, gay or renting.

"We know from existing adoptive families that it can be hard work, but the rewards are huge. This is your chance to transform a child’s life forever so get in touch and find out if adopting is for you."

Adoption events:

Friday 2 November – Sainsbury’s Newton Abbot 10am to 6pm.

Wednesday 7 November - Barbican Leisure Park, Plymouth 12 noon to 5pm

Friday 9 November – Totnes Market 10am to 1pm Saturday 10 November –

Exmouth Magnolia Shopping Centre 10am to 3pm

Tuesday 13 November - Tor Hill House, Torquay 4.30 to 7pm

Tuesday 20 November – Newton Abbot Library 11am to 2pm

Friday 23 November – The Mansion, Totnes 11am to 2pm

Tuesday 27 November - Tor Hill House, Torquay 4.30 to 7pm

The council is particularly keen to hear from potential carers from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities who have an interest in adoption or fostering.

Carers from minority ethnic and cultural groups are being encouraged to find out more. Potential carers can express an interest at the adoption events or they can contact Torbay Adoption Service by calling 01803 207870 or emailing adoption.team@torbay.gov.uk.

More details about these events and information about adopting can also be found by visiting www.torbay.gov.uk/adoption.