Plymouth Encouraged to Consider Adoption This National Adoption Week
Campaign highlights the importance of everyday moments in providing stability and love for children in need of a forever home.
By Verity Coombes
••3 min read
AI
Generic image of a community gathering with people holding brochures in a bright, welcoming space.
Plymouth residents are being encouraged to consider adoption this National Adoption Week, with a campaign highlighting how everyday family moments can profoundly impact a child's sense of belonging and security.
National Adoption Week, running from 19 to 25 October 2026, centres on the theme 'Every Day is Everything'. The campaign emphasises the significance of ordinary moments, such as shared meals, conversations, park visits, and bedtime routines, in helping children feel safe, loved, and secure.
Adopt South West is hosting an informal drop-in session at Plymouth Central Library on Wednesday 21 October, from 10am. This event offers an opportunity for interested individuals to learn about the adoption process, ask questions, and discover the support available.
The initiative aims to address the average 646-day wait many children in England face for a permanent family, highlighting the need for stable homes. Councillor Jemima Laing, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Children's Services, stated that adoption can transform a child's future, with everyday interactions playing a crucial role in their development.
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"Every child deserves the chance to grow up surrounded by love, stability and a sense of belonging. Adoption can transform a child's future, and often it is the everyday moments that have the greatest impact. Whether it's helping with homework, cheering from the sidelines or simply being there at the end of the school day, those moments build the foundations that children need to thrive."
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"We know there are people across Plymouth who could provide a loving home for a child. If you've ever thought about adoption, I would encourage you to come along to the event at Plymouth Central Library and have a conversation with the team. It could be the first step towards changing a child's life, and your own."
Short films featuring families enjoying everyday life will also be shared as part of the campaign. Amanda White, Head of Service for Adopt South West, emphasised that while big milestones are important, the everyday moments are what truly matter to children awaiting adoption. She added that adopters do not need to be perfect, but rather provide stability, love, and consistent presence.
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"Often when people think about adoption, they focus on the big milestones, but for children waiting for an adoptive family it’s the everyday moments that really matter. Having someone to encourage and care, be there for the school run, help with homework, celebrate successes and provide comfort on difficult days can make a life-changing difference."
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"National Adoption Week is an opportunity to celebrate adoption and remind people that adopters don't need to be perfect. I’d encourage anyone considering adoption to find out more. What children need most is stability, love and someone who will be there for them every day."
Liza Barry, who adopted her daughters in 2013 and 2019 as a single, full-time working parent, shared her experience, noting that her circumstances were not a barrier. She encouraged others to consider adoption, highlighting the need for safe, loving families for many children.
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"There are so many amazing children who need safe, loving families. If you've ever thought about adoption, I'd encourage you to find out more and have a conversation. It could be the start of something life-changing."
Adopt South West welcomes enquiries from individuals of all backgrounds, emphasising that the key qualities are the ability to provide a safe, stable, and loving home. Further information is available at adoptsouthwest.org.uk.
