First4Adoption, on behalf of the Department for Education has published new Adoption Maps revealing how many children were waiting to be adopted in each of the country’s 152 Local Authority areas in December 2014. The maps contain the most up-to-date information on adoption in England, and show, not only the numbers of adoptions via local authorities, but also those conducted by voluntary (independent) adoption agencies.
The new maps will help those interested in adopting a child to find out more about the agencies in their area and across the country, helping to make an informed decision about what is right for them.
Children and Families Minister Edward Timpson, who has two adopted brothers, said:
“As someone who grew up as a part of an adoptive family, I know only too well that adoption can be one of the most rewarding experiences life can bring, as well as having a life-changing impact on a child’s life. I’m determined to do everything in my power to ensure children waiting for adoption are offered loving, caring homes as soon as possible. I’d urge anyone considering adoption to look carefully at the information in the new maps published today and consider whether they are willing and able to embark on the exciting journey to become an adoptive parent.”
The new maps come in the wake of the government’s announcement of plans to create regional adoption agencies – groups of neighbouring councils and adoption charities working together to provide a more efficient service for children waiting for a “forever family”.