Diagrama FoundationThere were 3150* children waiting for adoption at 31st March 2023.
They come from a variety of different of different ethnic and religious backgrounds and some have disabilities and special needs. What they all have in common is that they have unsettled lives and have been taken into care prior to being adopted.
At Diagrama Adoption we recognise that regaining trust in adults can be a major challenge for adopters to manage and we will support you every step of the way to help bring stability and normality to their lives. Slowly, as their trust builds, you will see the transformation in their lives – as well as yours.
Children currently awaiting adoption
Boys, girls, brothers and sisters all need a forever home. Occasionally they are babies or infants, often they are older children.
Diagrama Adoption focuses on finding adopters for children who wait the longest for adoption.
This could be because:
- They could be older (age 3+)
- They may have a disability - even a mild one
- They may have minority ethnic heritage
- They may be part of a sibling group
Keeping Families Together: The Power of Sibling Adoption
For many children in the care system, the most important relationship is the one they share with their siblings. These bonds provide comfort, security, and a sense of belonging, especially during a time of upheaval and uncertainty. Sibling adoption aims to keep these vital connections intact by placing siblings together in a loving adoptive home. This approach offers numerous benefits for both the children and the adoptive family.
One of the most significant advantages of sibling adoption is the emotional security it provides for the children. Siblings often share a history and a deep understanding of each other's experiences. Being placed together allows them to continue to offer one another support and a sense of normality during a period of significant change. This can be particularly important for younger children who may rely on their older siblings for guidance and reassurance.
Sibling adoption can also be beneficial for the adoptive family. While adopting one child brings immense joy, welcoming siblings allows the family to offer a loving home to a larger group who already share a bond. This can create a dynamic and enriching family environment, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared experience.
Diagrama Adoption and Fostering is among 23 VAAs from all over the UK who have together created a guide for people considering adoption containing helpful information and advice from parents who have already adopted sibling groups. Click here to view.
Listen to Diagrama adopter Noreen
Diagrama adopter Noreen talks about why she felt it was important for siblings not to be split up in this short film
Embracing Every Child: Adoption and Disability
Adoption offers a path to loving families for children in need, and for some children, that need might be accompanied by a disability. While the decision to adopt a child with a disability requires careful consideration, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience, filled with love, growth, and the joy of building a forever family.
There are many misconceptions surrounding adoption and disability. One common concern is the unknown – what challenges might the child face? The reality is that every child, with or without a disability, presents unique needs and challenges. At Diagrama, we work closely with families to ensure a good match, considering the child's individual needs, the family's resources, and their capacity to provide love, support, and a nurturing environment.
For children with disabilities, adoption can be a chance to experience stability, love, and a sense of belonging. Many children in the care system have already faced trauma and disruption. A loving adoptive family can provide a safe haven where they feel secure and supported, fostering a sense of self-worth and the confidence to reach their full potential.
However, it's important to be realistic. Adopting a child with a disability may require additional support and resources. Families should be prepared to access therapy services, educational support, and potentially specialized equipment or home modifications. The good news is that there's a wealth of support available in the UK. Diagrama offer guidance and resources, and can support you to connect with charities and support groups, as well as connecting you with families who understand the specific challenges and joys of raising a child with a disability.
Diagrama Fostering and Adoption is among 21 VAAs from all over the UK who have together created a new guide for people considering adoption containing helpful information and advice from parents who have already adopted children with additional needs. View a copy of the advice guide here.
What does Ofsted say?
Forever Families: Adopting Minority Ethnic Children
One of the key benefits of adopting a child from a similar ethnic background is the fostering of a strong sense of self. Seeing their heritage reflected in their adoptive family environment allows children to feel a sense of belonging and validates their cultural identity. Traditions, languages, and even hairstyles can become powerful tools for connection and a positive affirmation of who they are.
Cultural competence, however, extends beyond simply acknowledging a child's ethnicity. Adoptive parents play a crucial role in equipping their children to navigate a world that may not always reflect their background. This might involve open conversations about racial prejudice, celebrating cultural festivals, and seeking out diverse role models. It's about creating a safe space where children can explore and embrace their heritage while also feeling supported in a potentially dominant culture.
It's important to remember that a child's needs should always be the primary consideration when forming an adoptive family. A good match prioritises these needs and the family's ability to meet them, regardless of ethnicity. Open-minded and loving families from any background can provide a nurturing environment where a child can thrive. We actively seek diverse families who are willing to learn and grow alongside the child they adopt.
