Becoming a Family
The Department for Education published figures showing a 23% increase in the number of families approved for adoption. Although children are waiting less time in care, Black children, children with additional needs and sibling groups wait the longest in care.
Tracy and Wayne, foster carers on the journey to adopt a young boy, feel the rigorous and intrusive processes of adoption are worth it to welcome a child into their family.
“It will be icing on the cake when it is all finalised. Being able to say to him: you really are part of our family,” she says.
Tracy and Wayne always wanted to make a difference in vulnerable children’s lives, giving them a secure foundation and the best opportunity for life through belonging in their family.
Making a Difference
The government has announced funding to help support adoptive families, providing services like cognitive therapy.
Rachel, a lone parent, adopted a young girl a few years ago. This comes with financial challenges when it comes to meeting the child’s needs.
“If you are adopted you cannot go to a regular counsellor. You must go to a counsellor who specialises in adoption – it needs to be written into law that this funding will stay and be accessible for all adoptive families,” she firmly states.
Forever Home
A key factor of adoption is a sense of belonging. Rachel was adopted at 5 weeks old and speaks of the love and acceptance her family has given her.
“I know I would not be the person I am today if I had not been adopted. It gave me stability. It gave me a beautiful family who accept me for being me. Have encouraged me to be me. Have nurtured and made me the best me I can be,” she reflects.
As her parents have shown and modelled acceptance, she hopes to do the same for her daughter.