National Adoption Week 2024: Celebrating Love, Family, and New Beginnings

By Susan Vickers

This week, from October 16th to October 22nd, 2024, the UK observes National Adoption Week, an annual event that shines a spotlight on the transformative power of adoption. As someone deeply involved in community support and championing important causes, I believe it's crucial to recognize and celebrate this week for several compelling reasons.

The Importance of National Adoption Week

National Adoption Week serves as a vital platform to raise awareness about adoption, dispel myths, and encourage more people to consider opening their hearts and homes to children in need of loving families. It's a time to celebrate the diverse families formed through adoption and to acknowledge the positive impact adoption has on individuals and communities.

Raising Awareness

One of the primary goals of National Adoption Week is to increase understanding of modern adoption practices. The campaign aims to highlight the diversity of adoption journeys and showcase the various types of families that exist today. This awareness is crucial in breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions about who can adopt and what adoption entails.

Supporting Those Affected by Adoption

The week provides an opportunity to promote and share services and resources available for everyone affected by adoption, including adopted individuals, birth parents, and adoptive parents. It's time to ensure that support networks are visible and accessible to those who need them most.

UK Adoption Statistics and Trends

Recent data paints a compelling picture of the adoption landscape in the UK:

- There has been a 22% increase in the number of children ready for adoption but not yet matched with adoptive families.

- 66% of people in North West England believe there's no such thing as a 'normal' family, reflecting a growing acceptance of diverse family structures.

- The number of adoptions has been falling year-on-year since peaking at 5,360 in 2014-15.

- There's been a 14% increase in children needing adoptive families compared to the previous year, with 15% fewer children being placed with adoptive families in the most recent quarter.

These statistics underscore the ongoing need for adoptive parents and the changing perceptions of family in our society while also highlighting recent challenges in the adoption landscape.

The Evolving Face of Adoption

The perception of adoption in the UK has evolved significantly over the years. From the early 20th century, when adoption was shrouded in secrecy, to today's more open and inclusive approach, the journey has been marked by significant changes:

Early to Mid-20th Century

- Adoption was formalised with the Adoption of Children Act 1926.

- There was a strong emphasis on "matching" children with similar-looking adoptive families.

- Adoption rates peaked in the 1960s and 1970s.

Late 20th Century

- A move towards more open adoptions began.

- Greater recognition of adoptees' rights to know their origins emerged.

- Increased focus on maintaining connections with birth families when appropriate.

21st Century: Modern Approach

1. Diversity and Inclusivity: There's a growing recognition of diverse family structures.

2. Child-Centred Approach: The focus has shifted to prioritising the best interests of the child.

3. Lifelong Support: Increased emphasis on providing ongoing support to all parties involved.

4. Identity and Heritage: Encouragement for adoptees to explore and celebrate their family history.

5. Transparency: A push for greater honesty and openness in the adoption process.

6. Trauma-Informed Care: Recognition of potential trauma experienced by adopted children.

Challenges in Recent Years

Despite progress, there have been challenges leading to a decline in adoptions from care:

1. Rise in special guardianship orders (SGOs) as an alternative to adoption.

2. Advances in fertility treatments and growing acceptance of surrogacy.

3. The current cost of living crisis is affecting potential adopters.

4. Need for more adopters for children who typically wait longest—older children, sibling groups, and those with additional needs.

5. Barriers for prospective adopters, including misconceptions and lack of confidence.

6. Shift away from positioning adoption as the "gold standard" for permanence.

7. Longer waiting times for children to be placed for adoption.

Why Celebration Matters

Celebrating National Adoption Week is important for several reasons:

1. Inspiration: Sharing adoption stories can inspire others to consider adoption.

2. Support: It provides a platform for adoptive families to connect and support one another.

3. Education: The week offers opportunities to learn about the adoption process and dispel common myths.

4. Advocacy: It's a chance to advocate for adoption-friendly policies and improved support systems.

How to Get Involved

There are numerous ways to participate in National Adoption Week:

- Attend adoption events or webinars to learn more about the process.

- Share adoption stories and experiences on social media using hashtags like NationalAdoptionWeek and AdoptionIsLove.

- Support local adoption agencies through volunteering or donations.

- Consider starting your own adoption journey if you've been contemplating growing your family through adoption.

For more information about adoption support or if you have questions regarding your own journey, please contact us at susanvickers.com. 

National Adoption Week is more than just an awareness campaign; it's a celebration of love, family, and the transformative power of adoption. By recognising this week, we acknowledge the countless lives changed through adoption, address ongoing challenges, and continue to support those embarking on this beautiful journey of creating forever families.