Children and families across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are set to benefit as a host of adoption experts join forces for the very first time.
Council and voluntary adoption agencies from across the region are coming together for a special adoption recruitment and information event at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Saturday 26th November from 10:00 to 14:00.
It means potential parents will be able to get advice from a variety of sources with the aim of helping more children find the loving homes they need.
Anyone considering adoption is encouraged to come to the drop-in event to meet with as many agencies as possible and chat to families who have already adopted about their experiences.
There is no need to book, and attendees are invited to simply drop by from 10:00. All agencies are looking for adopters for children of all ages, especially sibling groups, children aged 2 to 6 and children with complex needs.
The event will be the first time such a range of experts has worked together, marking a milestone in efforts to create a regional adoption agency for the area.
The government is encouraging adoption agencies to come together and the seven organisations Adoption UK, Barnardo’s, Hampshire County Council, Isle of Wight Council, PACT, Portsmouth City Council and Southampton City Council are working towards that aim.
A regional approach to adoption will pool all agencies’ expertise into adoption recruitment meaning applicants will have more support than ever before. More importantly it will give more choice of adopters so the best matches can be found for children and they get a new family as soon as possible.
Working in partnership as a regional agency aims to help to find children their permanent family more quickly. At any one time there could be up to 70 children in the region with plans for adoption. Whilst some of these will have families identified or have even moved in to their new home, there will be some children waiting to be matched with families who want to adopt.
Councillor Jonathan Bacon, leader and Executive member for children’s services at the Isle of Wight Council, said:
“Although people can speak to the Island’s adoption team at any time, the event in Southampton is an opportunity for prospective adopters to meet professionals from across the region as well as parents and children who have gone through the adoption journey, providing a real insight into the adoption process. By joining forces with other agencies we can create the best possible chances for children in care on the Island.”
If you would like general information about adoption, or to chat to one of the team about the event, call 01983 823081, visit www.iwight.com/adoption or email [email protected].
