A parent is speaking out about the importance of adoption as we enter national adoption week.

One family in the county is backing Cumbria County Council to try and match children with their forever families.

Talking from experience Andy Bond, a teacher, adopted two brothers with his husband. He said: “Our journey began about four years ago when we set off with the intention of adopting just one child. After long, long conversations and very careful planning we agreed to look for a sibling group of two.

“We were approved to do this at panel and the matching process began. The day we brought the boys home was probably one of the happiest of our lives.

“Those early days where it was just the four of us passed really quickly and we gradually began introducing the boys to extended family and it was a big moment for them and for the grandparents who were always desperate to have grandchildren and for the doting aunties and uncles.

“Adopting siblings is challenging and sometimes they both need your attention at the same time but you learn how to deal with it and it is so rewarding.

“Adoption has always been something I wanted to consider mainly because I am a big believer in giving children a chance who haven’t been given that in life. I would encourage anyone to adopt through the council, the adoption team were so encouraging and we felt incredibly well supported.”

The theme for this year’s National Adoption Week 2020 is ‘priority’ children; those who tend to wait longest for a loving home, such as sibling groups. In addition to sibling groups, loving forever families are needed for older children and children with additional or complex health needs.

Nearly 40 per cent of the children placed with families since lockdown started in March were siblings and the council currently has five more sibling groups who need loving, forever families.

To find out more a virtual information event will be held tonight at 7pm. To take part visit www.cumbria.gov.uk/adoption and on Facebook – search Fostering and Adoption with Cumbria County Council.