Here’s to happy families with Adoption Counts

If you want to know what adoption is like, what it’s really like, Adoption Counts’ network of adoptive families have come through the other side and can share their thoughts on logistics, love and listening to Encantoon repeat.

 Discover what life is like as an adoptive parent from the people who have done it. Adoption Counts’ success stories tell it like it is…

Sean and Alex 

 We were clear, from early on in our relationship, that adoption was always going to be our route into parenthood. While the assessment process was daunting at first, we actually found it really clarified for us both about why we were on that journey, and we felt supported in those assessment sessions which led to really open discussions.

 Our daughter has been with us for two years now (time really does go by so fast) and she is without doubt the bravest person we have ever met. She has completely turned our world on its head, in all the best ways. Our house became a home the second she walked through that door and our life is now a healthy mixture of organised chaos, laughter and the Encantosoundtrack.

 The perception of what an adopter might look like and of the young people that are in need of adoption is often misinterpreted so our message is: if you’re thinking about starting a family, LGBTQ+ or not, make that call and have a conversation…it might just be the best thing you ever do.

Matt and Shaun 

 We adopted our little boy, nearly 18 months ago now, and he just continues to surprise and amaze us, as well as filling our lives with buckets full of unconditional love. He has to be our greatest achievement so far, and we can’t imagine what our lives would be like without him.

 We have continued to keep in touch with his foster carers who have now become another part of our extended family, and are a continuous support to us in our hour of need. They have words of wisdom and oodles of parenting advice for most eventualities.

 On reflection, the process to be approved adopters was emotional but interestingly cathartic. We enjoyed our weekly meetings with the social worker but of course, we were eager for the time to speed up. Once approved we struggled with the matching process. Looking at various children’s profiles was hard going on our hearts. However, as soon as we read about our son, we knew we were all meant to be together. A forever family.

Antony

The adoption process wasn’t as intrusive as I thought it was going to be, although you do need to be prepared to open up about your private life – no skeletons are left in the closet when it comes to adoption. 

 I was really excited to be matched with my son and I completely fell in love with him. He is such a bubbly character, very sure of himself but caring and thoughtful too. He’s a real brainbox and loves computer games and reading, and as a family we enjoy walking, swimming and going to the seaside, although he can’t stand shopping, so he leaves that to me.

 If you are considering adopting, don’t rule out an older child. I was concerned that he wouldn’t be very affectionate but there’s no better feeling than coming home from work and being welcomed by his great big smile.

 I’d also make sure that you find out as much information as possible about potential children you could be matched with. I was initially open to adopting a child over four years old, but never in a million years did I expect to adopt an eight year old. I now realise the true meaning of unconditional love.

Jeanette and Mike 

 We enjoy a relaxed, child-focused life and spend our time walking in the countryside, having picnics on the beach, and splashing around in puddles. Our daughter is five and a real girly girl. She loves colours, art and design, dressing up, dancing and swimming, whereas our son, who’s three, loves number games and cuddling up with a good book and our family cat, Amber.  

 At first, our daughter was quite shy and very unsure of herself and her environment, not knowing whether she was going to move to another foster placement – a common worry for children in care. After a few months she really began to flourish and grow in confidence, the difference has been remarkable.

 We had a very supportive social worker who was open and honest from the beginning, providing us with up to date information every step of the way. She was always available when we needed her, from the first phone call to the day our children moved in. She still provides us with invaluable post-adoption support.

 Although the assessment process was challenging at times, we never felt interrogated and the process was very natural. 

 As a family we feel happy and fulfilled and, although we know there may be challenges to face in the future, just like in any family, we find parenting truly rewarding.

Molly and Alice

 Becoming parents to our two children has been a really rewarding and positive experience. We wanted to adopt a sibling group as we always envisaged that we would have two children. We both have good relationships with our siblings and could not imagine growing up without them.

 Our children were three years old and two years old when they came to us having had numerous moves. They were full of energy and it was a real shock to our system, but as time has gone on, they have turned our house into a real family home.

 There are of course challenges, and we have had to alter expectations and learn to be therapeutic parents but we have really seen the benefits. Our children are funny, caring and a joy to be with despite their difficult start in life.