An Abercarn man is taking part in a campaign to encourage people from different backgrounds to adopt.
Research published by the British Association of Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) has revealed that misunderstandings about who is eligible to adopt is contributing to a shortage of adopters in Wales.
According to the BAAF, almost one in four Welsh adults (24%) believe being over the age of 40 would prevent them from being able to adopt a child. In fact there is no upper age limit for prospective adopters.
Nearly half of those surveyed (44%) think being unemployed or overweight would discredit them from giving a child a permanent family home. In reality there are no such restrictions placed on those interested in adopting.
Nick Lewis, 25, of Abercarn, is now urging prospective adopters to come forward by taking part in a photography exhibition organised by BAAF and adoption agencies Adoption UK, After Adoption, Barnardo’s and St David’s Children’s Society.
The digital photography exhibition, entitled ‘Adopting Attitudes’, aims to promote adoption in Wales and features a range of adoptive parents and adoptees from a variety of backgrounds.
Nick was adopted at birth and had a happy upbringing in South Wales. Having always talked about adoption openly with his family, he is keen to de-stigmatise the adoption process.
Currently, 5,745 children are in the care of the Local Authorities in Wales and 275 were placed with adoptive families last year.
In addition to myths surrounding weight and age, the figures show that a fifth of Welsh people believe single people are not eligible to adopt. The charity is worried this misconception may have contributed to the low number (9%) of adoptions by single people last year.
Nick, who is a freelance equality and human rights consultant, said: “Taking part in the ‘Adopting Attitudes’ campaign is something I am very proud of. I have been extremely lucky and privileged to grow up with great parents.
“It is crucial that the misconceptions are dispelled, and more people are encouraged to foster and adopt. I had a wonderful upbringing and it’s unfortunate that so many children are missing out on a loving home because people feel worried that they will be rejected.
“I would particularly encourage more single people, those in same sex relationships, disabled people, gender variant people, black and minority ethics (BME) and others to consider adoption. It is an extremely rewarding experience and will ensure more children and young people have a stable and loving home to be proud of.”
Wendy Keidan, Director for BAAF Cymru, said: “There is a concerning shortage of adopters in comparison to the number of children waiting for adoptive families. The fact that only 6% last year were by same sex couples suggests that out-dated misconceptions are having a serious impact on new prospective adopters coming forward.
“The facts are simple; children need security, stability, love and a true sense of belonging in a home environment. We know that these homes can take many different forms. There is no such thing as the “perfect adopter” and we are concerned that people are not coming forward as a result of believing they don’t conform to a non-existent stereotype.”
The ‘Adopting Attitudes’ exhibition was unveiled at the Senedd on November 6.
Nick’s pictures and story are available to view at www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk/adoption/stories/adopting-attitudes.
For more information on adoption, call the Adoption UK enquiry line on 0844 848 7900 or email wales@adoptionuk.org.uk.