During National Adoption Week (31 October-6 November), the Norwood Adoption Society is issuing an urgent appeal for adopters on behalf of hundreds of children from across the UK in need of a new and loving home.
Norwood is searching people from all backgrounds, including couples and single applicants, who are willing to adopt children aged two and over, sibling groups or children from complex and diverse backgrounds. Norwood is issuing its appeal ahead of its annual adoption party on Sunday, 13 November, for children and families who it has recently supported through the adoption process.
Gillian Kirsch, Norwood’s Manager of Adoption Services, said: “Nowadays, it is very rare for babies to be available for adoption. However, there are many young children, aged two and above, who are in need of a nurturing, loving and secure home. You could be just the person or couple to change a child’s life.”
The Norwood Adoption Society (NAS) was established in 1990 and offers a comprehensive and personalised service. Its team of experienced social workers helps local authorities to find families for children from across the UK. Last year, Norwood placed 12 children, including two children with special needs, with approved domestic adopters, within the first year of their approval.
“Norwood is very successful in helping people to adopt,” added Gillian. “We place children from all over the country, not just in the Greater London area, which also increases people’s chances of success. We provide objective and clear advice on how to adopt, explain how the adoption process works and help prospective adopters to decide what the best option is for them. Our experience shows that, once you understand the process, you are able to make clear and informed decisions with the help of our dedicated and responsive staff.”
Our service:
- Welcomes enquiries from couples and single people regardless of sexuality, race, religion or disability.
- Offers a sensitive appraisal of your suitability to adopt.
- Is available to all potential adopters within approximately an hour’s travel from our offices in North West London.
- Holds regular information meetings, followed by individual interviews to explore all available options.
- Offers a range of post-adoption support, including training workshops, education advice and support, parenting groups and home visits.
For more information, visit www.norwood.org.uk/adoption, e-mail adoption@norwood.org.uk or phone 020 8420 6909.
Alison and Sophie’s story
Sophie and Alison
Last year, Norwood helped Alison, 48, from north London, to adopt Sophie, a six-year-old child who had spent several years in foster care. “It’s the best thing I ever did and I cannot imagine life before Sophie,” said Alison.
“Norwood was very positive from the start and I liked the fact that, as a smaller organisation, they responded quickly and had more of a personal touch. I also know that if I ever need to, I can pick up the phone someone from Norwood will be there.”
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Heather and Andrew’s story
With Norwood’s support, Heather, 48, and her husband Andrew, 58, from north London, adopted two children of dual heritage, Joseph, four, in 2006, and Rosie, two, last year. “It’s been the most extraordinary miracle,” said Heather. “We thought we couldn’t have children, and now we have two wonderful children. We’re very grateful to Norwood for making it happen.”
“The most important thing about Norwood’s support was that our social worker was very well-informed and really proactive. She really worked hard to understand us as people - our histories and our strengths. We also had the feeling that if we needed more support, they would have given it to us.”
- Some names have been changed to protect identities.
Jane and Mark’s Story
Jane and Mark, from north London, adopted siblings Charlotte, eight, and Thomas, nine, through Norwood in 2008. "It's been an incredible journey,” said Jane. “Of course, it has had its challenges, but overall it has been one of joy and happiness. Norwood provided tremendous support and we cannot thank them enough.”
"Norwood's value was that everyone was extremely positive about the process. When we met people at Norwood, it was so refreshing to experience an 'it's possible' attitude, especially when things became frustrating.”
- All names have been changed to protect identities.
