This year’s campaign from You Can Adopt celebrates different generations of adopted people to show how adoption has changed through the decades and to encourage potential adopters to come forward to change the life of children who are still waiting for a permanent home.
A powerful set of portraits captured by royal, fashion and portrait photographer Philip Sinden - who was adopted himself in the 1970s - have been released.
The portraits show striking imagery of 8 different people who were adopted between the 1960s and 2010s, and bring to life how adoption has shaped, and continues to shape, their lives whilst highlighting how adoption has changed over the years.
The campaign also includes a short film that shines a spotlight on the positive impact adoption has had on the individuals’ lives, and the strides made in the sector to put children and their sense of identity at the heart of the adoption journey.
Each year, Adoption East Midlands needs to find permanent homes for around 150 children. If you, or someone you know, is thinking about adopting, enquiring with Adoption East Midlands’ dedicated team is the first step to what could be a life-changing journey.
Jake and Oli, a couple from the LGBTQ community who have adopted 2 children through Adoption East Midlands, spoke about their experience and said:
“Having adopted 2 dual heritage children with additional needs, we realise first-hand the importance of providing a loving and nurturing home for children, especially those who may typically wait longer to be adopted.
“The adoption process is certainly a rollercoaster ride filled with lots of different emotions. But being parents to our boys is truly amazing and rewarding and we wouldn’t change it for the world. For anyone considering adoption, I would say just be open minded and take your time, it’s definitely worth it.
“Adoption East Midlands supported us throughout the whole process. They really get to know you as individuals and tailor the support to meet yours and your children’s needs”.
Our Cabinet Member for Children and Families, Councillor Julie Patten said:
“We’re delighted and proud to be supporting this year’s National Adoption Week. There are children across Derbyshire waiting for families and I would encourage anyone who has thought about adopting to find out more from Adoption East Midlands. Our friendly team will be able to answer any questions you might have and will support you every step of the way on your adoption journey.”
Shelagh Mitchell, Group Manager, Adoption East Midlands, said:
“This National Adoption Week, we want people to find out more about adoption. People from all walks of life can make wonderful adoptive parents who could provide a loving, stable home for young people who need them.
“We are urging people to come forward and find out more about adoption so that local children can find the right adoptive family and grow and thrive. Becoming an adoptive parent gives you the chance to be a part of that and change a child’s life for the better.
“If you are thinking about adoption, or would just like to find out more, I would encourage you to get in touch today, or join one of our information events where you can ask questions, have an informal chat with staff and hear the experiences of those who have adopted with us”.
If you wish to consider adopting, tel: 0115 804 4567 or visit Adoption East Midlands or join our upcoming online information event on Tuesday 31 October 2023 from midday to 2pm. All future event details can be found on the Adoption East Midlands events page.