Autism Awareness Week launches fresh appeal for more adopters

J is almost four years old. He enjoys playing with his train track, on the swings outside and being read stories, especially at bedtime.

He is always on the go; signing nursery rhymes, swimming and searching for anything sparkly.

J has autism and is waiting for a family to adopt him.

This week Adoption Now is supporting World Autism Awareness Week (26 March – 2 April) to raise awareness of autism and the need for more adoptive parents for children with additional needs.  

There are currently 80 children awaiting adoption with the agency and an estimated 20 per cent of these have additional needs due to them being on the autistic spectrum or having a genetic condition.

Autism is defined as a spectrum condition which affects how people see the world and interact with others. People with autism will often share certain difficulties, but being autistic can affect them in a variety different ways.

J is a little boy who can lack confidence in new situations but thrives on repetition and consistent routines.

J has been living with his foster carer for the past year, she said: “J is a very loving little boy who is very rewarding to care for; he is a little boy who gives a lot back.

“When he came to us he didn’t speak and wasn’t really aware of the world around him but now he’s joining in singing, naming everything he sees and trying new activities. It’s amazing to see his progress and lovely to watch him growing up and building caring relationships.”

Unfortunately, children with additional needs often wait longer for adoption placements, so Adoption Now are actively recruiting potential adopters who are willing to consider caring for children with autism or other additional needs.

Karen Barrick, head of service at Adoption Now, said: “Children that need adoptive families come from a range of diverse backgrounds and they all have different needs, but what they all really need is a loving environment where they can thrive. So if you feel you could open your hearts and homes to a child with autism or other additional needs please get in touch because together we can make a positive difference to a child’s life.”

Adoption Now is a regional adoption agency which combines the expert local authority adoption teams from Blackburn, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale & Tameside council’s to deliver outstanding adoption services across the North West.

Read more about J here www.adoptionnow.org.uk/stories

For more information about adopting with us call 01204 336096.