The Children Who Wait


There are estimated to be as many as 5,000 children of all ages, ethnicities and abilities in the UK who are waiting to find a new family. Of these it is estimated 200 of the children are resident in Northern Ireland

The majority of children who wait for a new family are ages between 2 and 10 years. Many have experienced problems in their early lives. Others may have a disability.

Brothers and sisters might need to be placed togther

There are many reasons why they can no longer live with their birth families - these include abuse, neglect or family breakdown. Adoption routes aims to find families to care for these children and on a permanent basis so that they can develop, have secure and stable family lives.

Most of the children placed for adoption are in the care of Social Services Trust Foster Carerd prior to placement for adoption. The upheaval they have known in their lives is likely to impact on their general development and may have an influence on their behaviour.

All children are different but all need love and security. For adopted children this is particularly important as they have often not previously experienced these. They need fun-loving energetic and positive parents who enjoy children and will delight in their achievements.