Adopters are needed for children in West Sussex who are waiting to join safe and loving families.
West Sussex County Council offers an adoption service that fully prepares prospective parents for adoption, matches them with the right children and offers long-term support. The council is looking for people to adopt children from babies and toddlers through to school age.
To mark National Adoption Week (15-21 October), one couple who adopted through West Sussex County Council have spoken about their experience.
Stephen and Simon
Stephen and Simon are now parents to a two-year-old boy and Stephen said: “Our social worker was direct, truthful and honest but also sympathetic, friendly and understanding, which made it really easy to connect with her.
“Adoption is such an amazing avenue for anyone wanting to become a family. It takes drive, honesty and lots and lots of patience but your determination will be repaid tenfold when you finally get to look into your child’s eyes.
“We cannot express how amazing we have found the process as the end result has been our adorable son so we will forever feel a great sense of gratitude to everyone who has helped us in achieving our goal.”
“We welcome enquiries from anyone”
Paul Marshall, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “There’s no age limit to becoming an adoptive parent and we welcome enquiries from anyone regardless of marital status, gender, ethnicity or sexuality. Adoptive parents need to be compassionate, caring, committed and resilient as well as financially secure and healthy, and clearly have a tremendous amount of love to give.
“There are lots of wonderful children in West Sussex just waiting for permanent loving new homes.”
West Sussex County Council hosts regular information sessions where prospective adopters can find out more and talk in confidence in a welcoming and informal environment. The next event takes place in Shoreham on 28 November.
Speak to our adoption team by calling 0330 222 777 or visit www.westsussex.gov.co.uk/adoption to find out more.
