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Potential adopters ruling themselves out research shows


F


igures released at the end of 2012 by the British Association of Adoption and Fostering revealed that a significant


proportion of the population rule themselves out from adoption because of common misconceptions.


Research shows: • 18 per cent thought that being single is a barrier to adoption


• 24 per cent thought that having a low household income might rule a person out from adoption


• 39 per cent thought that being unemployed was a barrier to adoption


• 69 per cent thought that a criminal conviction would rule out a person from adoption


• 19 per cent believed lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people are unable to adopt.


We urge anyone who is considering


adoption to come forward and speak to us, and not to automatically rule themselves out.


• What is adoption? Adoption provides a new permanent family and home for children who can no longer live with their birth family. Adoption is a legal procedure resulting in the parental responsibility being permanently transferred to the adopters. We know from existing families that adoption can be hard work but the rewards are huge and additional support


is available. Adopters have a chance to positively transform a child’s life forever.


• Who are the children who need adopting? The children in our area waiting for adoption are in the majority aged from nine months to eight years old and these include sibling groups which need a family as well as single children. The children needing an adoptive family have often had difficult early experiences and some will therefore have extra needs for support and care.


• Who can adopt? Adoption is open to more people than you think. A single person or unmarried couple – heterosexual, lesbian or gay can adopt and you don’t have to own your home. You have to be over 21 years of age but there is no upper age limit. The most important part of adoption is to provide the child with the security of a loving home and a permanent caring family.


• Who are we? The South East Wales Adoption Service is an adoption service that covers Monmouthshire, Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen local authorities. We are extremely passionate and committed to finding forever homes and families for our children in care. We also provide support and guidance throughout the process and after you adopt.


• What happens when I get in touch with the team? We know that making the first contact can often be a daunting experience. It’s because of this we really strive to provide a friendly and supportive service. You don’t have to be sure about adoption to call us. We regularly speak to people who are unsure and looking for more information and someone friendly to talk too. We are always happy to come out and visit


people who are interested in gaining more information – and you are never under any obligation to go forward. After speaking to one of the team, you


may wish to wait and digest the information before making a decision, which is quite common. There is no rush to make a decision and we will always be here for you when you are ready to move forward with adoption. If you don’t feel comfortable phoning at


first there is an email address you can contact us on below. We can answer any questions you have and send you an electronic information pack.


To speak to one of the team, Please phone 01495 355766 e-mail adoption@blaenau-gwent.gov.uk Or visit www.adoptionsoutheastwales. co.uk


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