West Yorkshire Urged to Consider Adoption Amid Rising Demand

National Adoption Week highlights urgent need for adoptive families

As National Adoption Week begins (19 to 25 October), One Adoption West Yorkshire has issued a call for more people in the region to consider adoption. Current figures reveal that approximately 160 children across West Yorkshire are awaiting permanent families.

Increasing numbers of children need adoption

Data shows a 60% rise in the number of children requiring adoption in the Yorkshire and Humber region over the past five years. On average, children wait 294 days without a permanent home after an adoption plan is agreed. These delays mean significant time lost in childhood that could otherwise be spent in a stable and secure family environment.

Addressing misconceptions about adoption

One Adoption West Yorkshire is supporting the You Can Adopt campaign, “Every Day is Everything,” which aims to dispel common myths around adoption. Many potential adopters are deterred by the belief that they must own their home, fit a traditional parental image, or have their lives perfectly organised before applying. However, adoption agencies are primarily seeking individuals or couples who can provide a safe, stable, and loving home.

National concerns and future projections

A recent report by Adoption England and Coram warns that if current trends continue, by 2030 there may only be enough approved adoptive families for 13% of children needing permanent homes in England. Conversely, if adopter registrations return to previous levels, nearly 1,000 additional children could be placed in permanent families by 2030.

Support and information for prospective adopters

One Adoption West Yorkshire offers regular online information sessions for those interested in learning about the adoption process and the children waiting for families. Upcoming sessions are scheduled for:

• Tuesday 20 October at 6pm
• Saturday 7 November at 9.30am

For more details, prospective adopters can visit www.oneadoption.co.uk or call 0113 378 3535.

Statements from adoption officials

Michelle Rawlings, Head of One Adoption West Yorkshire, stated: “National Adoption Week is an opportunity to shine a light on the children across West Yorkshire who are waiting for the security and stability of a permanent family. Many people do not realise that they could provide the loving home a child needs.”

Sarah Johal MBE, National Adoption Strategic Lead at Adoption England, added: “Social workers are unable to find families for all the children who need adoption, but we can change this trajectory. The families that these children need are out there. They may even be thinking about adoption already but have not come forward yet.”