If you’re thinking about adoption, maybe now is the time for you to find out more!

The Trusts in the EHSSB area are holding two Adoption Open Evenings as follows:

Thursday 8th November 2007 at 7.30 pm in Maxwell Court, Main Street, Kircubbin.

And

Thursday 15th November 2007 at 7.30 pm in the Ramada Hotel, Shaw's Bridge Belfast.

These events will give you the opportunity to obtain information about adoption and to hear about the children from Northern Ireland waiting for a loving and permanent home.

People wishing to find out more about adoption or to register an interest in attending the above events should telephone: 0800 78 343 76

What is adoption?

Adoption is a way of providing a permanent family for children who can no longer be brought up by their biological mum or dad.  When you adopt, you take on all the legal rights and responsibilities for the child.  It's a lifelong commitment and like all parenting, it means sticking with it through good times and bad.  It's not always easy but, as many adoptive parents will testify, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

Who can adopt?

Every child deserves a permanent home that makes them feel safe and cared for, a home that's right for their age, cultural, ethnicity, religion and any other needs.  So we are looking for adopters with different backgrounds and experiences.

You do have to be:

You do NOT have to be:

Please also be assured that disability does not rule you out.

Who are the children waiting to be adopted?

All sorts of children from all sorts of cultural backgrounds need all sorts of families.  Some are toddlers, some are older children and others are brothers and sisters who want to grow up together.  Some may have physical disabilities, learning difficulties or medical conditions.  Others may have been abused or neglected.  Many have complex backgrounds and need lots of extra time and attention.  Often older children, children with disabilities wait the longest.

What do I do if I want to adopt?

First you contact an adoption agency – either your local HSS Trust adoption team or an approved voluntary agency.  For more information phone our new Adoption Enquiry Line Freephone: 0800 78 343 76 to have an information pack sent to you.  The process that follows will include an assessment and some training, to give you the confidence you need to become an adoptive parent.

For more information on national adoption week visit the following website: http://www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk/