During National Adoption Week (1-7 November), the Norwood Adoption Society is launching an appeal for new adopters in a bid to help change the lives of hundreds of children. Norwood is searching for couples and single applicants who have experience of child care and are willing to adopt children aged five and over, sibling groups or children from complex and diverse backgrounds.
Gillian Kirsch, Norwood’s Head of Domestic Adoption, said: “The Norwood Adoption Society works with local authorities to help find families for disadvantaged children in the UK. Many of the children will have experienced neglect and will be of school age. Some will have disabilities or other needs while others will require placements with their brothers or sisters.
“Adopting a child is a life-changing experience. We need people who can offer a child or sibling group a loving and supportive family for life, and who can respond to a child’s needs and help them reach their full potential.
“In return, we provide a responsive service that offers invaluable personal and professional support to all prospective adopters and, by acting as an intermediary between families, local authorities and other agencies, helps them navigate the sometimes difficult path towards adoption.”
The Norwood Adoption Society (NAS) was established as an adoption agency in 1990 and works with children and families from many different religions, cultures and ethnic groups.
“As an organisation, Norwood works with people to improve the quality of their lives and achieve their goals,” said Gillian. “The Norwood Adoption Society is no exception and strives to ensure that each child is placed within an environment in which they will receive all the love, understanding and stability they need to flourish during childhood.
“Initially, we are simply asking people to come forward and find out more about adoption. If you think you might have what it takes, please pick up the phone today.”
National Adoption Week is to raise awareness of adoption and encourage potential parents to come forward. There are an estimated 4,000 children across the UK needing adoption every year, many of whom will have suffered trauma in their short lives.
For more information about becoming a Norwood adopter, please contact 020 8420 6909 or e-mail gillian.kirsch@norwood.org.uk
