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Adoption East Midlands and Nottinghamshire County Council are proud to support a nationwide campaign for National Adoption Week.

To mark National Adoption Week, ‘You Can Adopt’ is challenging the myth that only a ‘perfect’ home is suitable for adoption, highlighting instead that what children truly need is a loving and welcoming home.

New findings from You Can Adopt reveal that 86% of adopters initially feared they needed a ‘perfect home’ to adopt. However, the data shows that many successful adoptions take place in rented properties, homes without gardens, and smaller living spaces, proving that a loving environment is what really matters.

To kick off the campaign, Adoption East Midlands will be hosting an information event at Loxley House, Nottingham, where those thinking about adoption can come along to find out more. The event will take place on Tuesday, 28 October from 4:30pm to 7pm and event information can be found on the Adoption East Midlands website: https://adoptioneastmidlands.org.uk/events/

Each year, Adoption East Midlands needs more adopters and offers a comprehensive range of services to support adopters throughout their journey from initial enquiry to post-adoption support that includes:

• Pre-adoption Support - Prospective adopters receive personalised support from a dedicated social worker, take part in training to prepare for adoption, and gain access to an online hub with helpful resources and guidance.
• Post-adoption Support - Adopters benefit from ongoing support from experienced social workers, tailored parenting tools, peer connections with other adopters/ our adoption community through events, guidance to local and national resources, and access to a dedicated advice line.

Scott, who has adopted through Adoption East Midlands, said: “When we first adopted, our house was rented. We worried that without long term security, we may not get approved or be overlooked. Social workers quickly reassured us it was not about what we had but what we made it. 

“Children are not worried about if you own the house or rent it, they just want to feel cared for and looked after and know it’s a place where they will be loved. I really hope this is the home we have created for our children.

“The adoption process can be daunting at first, but it is 100% worth it, so much so me and my partner have been through it twice. Be open minded, transparent and most importantly be kind to yourself along the way.” 

Shelagh Mitchell, Group Manager at Adoption East Midlands, said: “Adoption East Midlands is proud to once again support National Adoption Week, a vital opportunity to highlight the unique journeys of adoptive families and the incredible individuals who support them along the way.

“No two adoption stories are the same. That’s why our dedicated team of social workers and family support staff work tirelessly to provide personalised guidance and care tailored to each family’s needs.

“It’s a common misconception that you need a ‘perfect home’ to adopt. But the reality is very different, successful adoptions happen every day in rented homes, flats without gardens, and smaller living spaces. What truly matters is providing a loving, stable environment where a child can live.

“We invite anyone considering adoption to reach out or attend one of our upcoming information events. Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way. We’d love to hear from you.”

Councillor Rory Green, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “It’s important that we highlight the need for adopters as part of National Adoption Week. Every child deserves the best chance in life and being within a loving, caring and comfortable home is all they could possibly need. 

“Tackling the stigma that every home needs to be perfect to be able to adopt, is crucial as it opens doors for those who have been put off previously. If you are thinking of adopting, then please get in touch with our dedicated team, you never know where it might lead. Lastly, a special thank you to all the people who have adopted to date. You have truly changed the course of the children’s lives for good.”  

If you wish to consider adopting, call 0115 804 4567 or visit www.adoptioneastmidlands.org.uk.

All future event details can be found on our events page.