Supporting adoptive families every step of the way

Adoption Week Scotland begins this weekend and Aberdeenshire Council is highlighting its support for families considering beginning the process.

For those thinking about adoption, Aberdeenshire Council is holding a virtual information evening on Monday, November 25 from 7.30pm to 9pm.

The session gives people a chance to discover the adoption process step-by-step as well as learning about the resources and support available. Current adoptive parents will also be on hand to share their story, allowing people to hear firsthand about what adoption means.

Whether people are just starting to explore adoption or ready to take the next step, this event is designed to provide guidance and answer any questions.

Manager of Aberdeenshire’s Adoption Service Carol Reilly said: “Children who need adoption need the same as all children – safe, secure, loving parents. 

“We welcome adoption enquires from all members of the community, including LGBTQ+  community and single people, and all faiths. 
 
“Our goal is to find loving families for children who are unable to grow up in their family of origin.”

In Aberdeenshire, about 12 children each year need adoptive families, from newborns to children up to seven years old. 

The council encourages potential adopters to keep an open mind about the age or gender of the child they might adopt, as this can give more children the chance to find a home. 

The council is also looking for families willing to adopt siblings, so that brothers and sisters can stay together if it’s in their best interests.

Carol added: “We know each adoption journey is different, and we’re here to support everyone involved, both now and in the future. 

“By focusing on the needs of the children and supporting adoptive families, we help ensure that every child can grow up safe, accepted, and with a clear understanding of their story. 

“We stay by adoptive families’ sides as long as they need us, guiding them through their journey.”

Chair of Aberdeenshire Council’s Education and Children’s Services Committee Cllr David Keating said: “We know it’s so important that families going through an adoption journey have our dedicated team with them every step of the way. 

“We want to help adopters give children the safe, loving homes they need, and our adoption team works hard to make this possible. 

“We’ve had great feedback from families who appreciate our support, so if you’re considering adoption, please get in touch with us or come along to our online information evening when you can hear other families stories.”

Vice Chair Cllr Anne Simpson added: “Our team makes the adoption process as smooth as possible, with every child’s need for a secure, loving home at the heart of what they do. 

“Adopting is a big decision, and we hope this week will help people interested in adoption learn more about it. There’s nothing more rewarding than giving a child a safe, loving home to call their own. As a mother of two now adult adopted children I can vouch for that.”

If you are considering adopting in Aberdeenshire or for more information, click here. 

To book your spot at the information evening, email adoption@aberdeenshire.gov.uk or call 01467 532800. 

You can keep up to date on the latest events by visiting www.facebook.com/Adoptandfosteraberdeenshire