Caritas Care are delighted to be taking part in the new You Can Adopt Campaign to help attract more adopters for the children who are currently waiting.

Adoption experts are raising concerns over an unprecedented decline in adoption rates. For the first time in recent years, there are more children in need of adoption than there are families coming forward to adopt. The latest data reveals a 14% increase in children needing an adoptive family compared to 2022-23, with 15% fewer children being placed with adoptive families in the last quarter.

With the current cost of living crisis, many prospective adopters are hesitant, waiting for the ‘perfect time’ to adopt. However, for a child in need of a permanent home, the perfect time is now. A recent survey reveals that 51% of parents felt they never truly prepared to be a parent, and 76% believe there is no perfect time to start a family. Despite these concerns, 79% of parents consider adoption the most rewarding experience of their lives.

In response to these challenges, You Can Adopt has launched a new campaign, The Journey, aimed at inspiring more people to consider adoption. The campaign includes a new film that portrays adoption as a journey full of challenges, chaos, conversation, and love. Supported by BBC’s The Traitors contestant Miles Asteri, an adoptive father of two, the campaign emphasises that adoption is the adventure of a lifetime.

To mark the campaign’s launch, new survey data reveals common concerns among parents before starting a family, such as being emotionally ready (46%), having financial stability (22%), and being at the right career point (21%). Despite these worries, 81% of parents find parenting the most challenging yet rewarding experience, with 79% considering it the most fulfilling part of their lives.

Sarah Johal, National Adoption Strategic Lead for Adoption England, urges prospective adopters to take the first step without waiting for the perfect time. “Every child deserves a loving, permanent home,” she says. “Adoption is not always easy, but there is ample support available, including emotional and therapeutic resources. Take that first step; the rewards of giving a child a stable home are unparalleled.”

The campaign’s new film follows adoptive families on their journeys, highlighting the ups and downs of family life. According to the survey, family trips are often associated with getting lost (24%), sibling bickering (24%), and spillages (18%). However, these chaotic moments are outweighed by special memories (38%), excitement for the destination (42%), and bonding time (45%). This reflects the overall journey of adoption, filled with chaos, challenges, and love.

Adopters from various backgrounds are sharing their experiences as part of the campaign. Miles Asteri, adoptive father of two and star of BBC’s The Traitors, shares his story: “Adoption has always been part of my life, as my mother was also adopted. Before adopting, it’s natural to have many questions and worries. However, the experience of becoming a parent is unparalleled. Watching our daughters grow has been the adventure of a lifetime.”

Miles also hosts a new podcast episode from You Can Adopt, where he discusses his adoption journey alongside single adopter, Alexandra.

For more information on adopting contact us on 0800 652 6955 or visit our website www.caritascare.org.uk

Take the first step in your adoption journey today and make a lasting impact on a child’s life.