Could you adopt a child?

National Adoption week takes place this week (October 16 to 22)) and Herts County Council is encouraging people to think about whether they could provide a stable, loving and lifelong family home for a Hertfordshire child. The theme for this year’s campaign is ‘What’s it really like?’ and people are being asking people to get in touch by phone, email or on social media with any questions they have about adoption. There are a number of children waiting for adoptive placements in the county and more people are needed to come forward who could give children a permanent home and family. All children who need adoption will have had a tough start in life and adoptive families for children with more complex needs are particularly needed. Families are needed for groups of brothers and sisters to ensure that they can grow up together. Teresa Heritage, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “The most vulnerable children in our society need a safe place where they can grow up, learn to trust again and feel secure. If you think you can offer a child a loving and permanent place in which to grow up, we want to hear from you.” Herts County Council are holding an open evening on Thursday 19 October at Beales Hotel, Comet Way in Hatfield from 6.30pm – 8.30pm. You’ll get the chance to hear from adopters, learn about the process and the support on offer. The event is free, and there’s no need to book. Applications for adoption from people from all walks of life are welcomed. Applicants should not rule themselves out on the grounds of: – Marital status – Not owning their own home – Sexuality – Age (although all adopters must be over 21) – Disability For more information please call 0800 9170925 or visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/adoption.