THERE are nearly three times as many children in the region awaiting adoption as there are adoptive families.

Bolton leaders are urging anyone who has considered adoption to come forward as the number of children desperately needing loving homes continues to rise.

The North West region currently has 630 children in need of adoptive homes but only 240 families approved to adopt, according to new government figures.

North West-based agency, Adoption Now, is supporting the National Adoption Week campaign this week in a bid to encourage people in Bolton to step forward and find out more about adopting local children who are waiting for safe homes.

Karen Barrick, Head of Service at Adoption Now, said: “This report highlights the ongoing and urgent need to find adoptive families for children who desperately need them.

“Adoption transforms the lives of those it touches and this National Adoption Week we’re asking anyone who has ever thought about adoption to find out more.

“Whether you’re married, single, gay or heterosexual, don’t rule yourself out, if you think you might be able to give a vulnerable child a loving home, please get in touch.”

Adoption Now is looking for adopters for around 90 children in their care.

During National Adoption Week, the Adoption Now team will be in Bolton to answer any questions residents have about the adoption process and the children in local authority care.

The team will be at Bolton One Leisure Centre on Friday from 11am to 2pm.

The team will also be available to answer any questions people might have during a live Facebook Messenger chat on Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm.

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Cllr Christine Wild said:

“Children come to be adopted because their birth families are unable to care for them.

“Many of them have experienced difficult starts in life. All of these children need a loving, stable home.

“Being an adoptive parent can be challenging but it also brings great rewards.

“If you’re interested in finding out more, please contact Adoption Now today”.

For more information about adoption in Bolton contact Adoption Now on 01204 336096 or visit www.adoptionnow.org.uk.