More people across Derby are being urged to consider adoption and give children the safe, loving and permanent family they deserve as part of a national campaign.

Derby City Council is supporting ‘Every Day is Everything’, led by Adoption England’s campaign, You Can Adopt, which shines a light on the everyday moments that help children thrive, from bedtime stories and school runs to the reassurance of knowing someone will always be there.

Across Nottinghamshire, Nottingham, Derby and Derbyshire, children wait an average of 300 days to be adopted, leaving many without the stability, security and sense of belonging that a permanent family can provide.

Adoption East Midlands will be hosting information events on Tuesday 6 October, 12pm until 2pm - online and on Tuesday 20 October, 5.30pm until 8pm - in person, County Hall, Smedley Street, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3AG. 

Further information and how to book on to the information events along with several pop - up events across the region, where anyone thinking of adoption can come along, can be found on the Adoption East Midlands website.

Rose, who has adopted through Adoption East Midlands, said:

Adopting Bella has completed our family and provided her with a place she can call her home. It’s been challenging along the way and has given us a new sense of trust and respect for our little people.

As a family, we have had so many new, fun and exciting experiences and adventures that we wouldn’t have had without her in our lives. Life is unpredictable and is busy with plenty of laughs. Adoption East Midlands has supported me from the start of the process and continues to do so if required."

Shelagh Mitchell, Group Manager at Adoption East Midlands, said:

Through the 'Every Day is Everything' campaign, we're asking people to think about the difference they could make by opening their hearts and homes to a child. We welcome enquiries from people of all backgrounds and are here to support prospective adopters throughout every stage of their journey.

The first step is often the hardest, but it could be the beginning of something life-changing for both a child and an adoptive family.”

Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in a safe, loving and stable home. Through the 'Every Day is Everything' campaign, we're encouraging people from all walks of life to consider whether adoption could be right for them.

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

Adoption can change lives in ways that are truly lasting. By opening your heart and your home, you can give a child the love, stability and support they need to grow and thrive. If you’ve ever thought about adoption, we’d encourage you to find out more and speak to Adoption East Midlands about whether it could be right for you.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about adoption can visit the Adoption East Midlands webpage to learn about the process, hear from adoptive families and register for an online/in person information event.