Wanted: those who can give a child some love and support

Nov 11 2009 by Wendy Scott, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

A COUNCIL is appealing for Monklands couples to adopt a child.

Sheila Gordon, North Lanarkshire Council's service manager for corporate parenting, said: “There are a number of myths associated with adopting children. We certainly won't turn you down because you're over 40, single or don't own your own home.

“What we really need are people who can offer a child or sibling group a loving, supportive family for life. Initially, we are simply asking people to come forward and find out more about adoption.

“If you think you might be interested, please call us today and we'll talk you through what's involved.”

The need for adoptive parents and foster carers never goes away.

National Adoption Week, which is organised by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF), aims 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.

In Scotland there is an increasing impact of drug and alcohol misuse on children.

Whether it is children being born with a dependency on drugs and/or the physical and mental health consequences of this, or parents who are struggling to deal with their own difficulties so are unable to provide consistent and loving care to their children.

Many of these children will need permanent new families who can provide a firm foundation for their future.

For more information about the adoption process call 0800 073 1566 or go to www.whyyou.co.uk