New campaign to find more people to adopt brothers and sisters

Adoption Lancashire and Blackpool has launched a new campaign today (Tuesday 20 September) to find adoptive parents who can offer permanent, loving homes for groups of brothers and sisters of varying sizes and ages.

The campaign highlights the special bond siblings have and the importance of keeping them together.

Recent figures show that 45 per cent of children waiting to be adopted in Lancashire and Blackpool are part of a sibling group. Some of these children have been waiting for 18 months or longer to find their adoptive family.

One couple who adopted a brother and sister, now aged 8 and 12, said: "Adopting siblings wasn't something that we initially set out to do but after attending various activity days we decided to explore this option.

"We came across P & S, a brother and sister, who had such a strong bond together which we just loved. The adoption didn’t come without challenges.  Going from zero to two children overnight was quite strange but we very quickly adapted with help and support from our social workers and family members.

"Seven years on we wouldn't have our lives any other way. We absolutely adore them and the little family we have become."

Victoria Gent, Chair of Adoption Lancashire and Blackpool said: "Brothers and sisters make the best friends and many of these children have been through difficult experiences.

"Having a brother or sister who has been there all along can help adopted children to feel safe, settle quickly into their new home and provides them with ongoing companionship, and emotional support throughout their lives.

"We understand that it is a big life-changing decision and adopted children can bring their own challenges. Adopting a family group could feel daunting, but there is so much support on hand to help guide adopting parents and children through the process of new beginnings.

"Our team of experienced staff are on hand to support people from initial enquiry right the way through the adoption journey.

"If you think you can offer a sibling group a safe and happy permanent home, we’d love to hear from you."

For most people the relationships they have with their brothers and sisters are the longest lasting relationship they will have.

Children learn so much and gain so many life skills by sharing and caring for each other.  Growing up together can help them with their development and they share their emotions with each other.

Adoption Lancashire and Blackpool always need more adoptive parents from all walks of life, and welcome applications from people of all ages, single, married, cohabiting, in same-sex relationships, with or without their own children, working or not.

It takes a special kind of person to adopt more than one child but if you're thinking about adoption  you can find out more on the Adoption Lancashire and Blackpool website or book a place at an information event which are held regularly across the county www.adoptionlancashireblackpool.org.uk. If you'd prefer to speak to someone, then give our friendly team a call on 0300 123 6727. 

Notes for editors

Additional quote from Lancashire County Council 

County Councillor Cosima Towneley, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for children and families, said: "I'd like to ask anyone who is considering adoption to think about whether they could adopt brothers and sisters.

"If you think you would ultimately like to have more than one child in your family, adopting a sibling group means you will only have to go through the training and approval process once.

"There’s no denying that having more than one child comes with real challenges and will require commitment and energy. But it also has advantages and brings great rewards for both yourself and the children."

Cllr Jim Hobson, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, said: “We aim to keep siblings together where possible as it gives them the opportunity to grow up together, have shared experiences and develop a strong family bond.

“For children whose lives are turned upside down, staying with their brother or sister can give them a sense of stability and belonging.

“If you think you could adopt a sibling group and help them to reach their full potential then please get in touch.”