St Helens Borough Council supports National Adoption Week
St Helens Borough Council is proud to support National Adoption Week 2025 (20-26 October), joining the national campaign to challenge misconceptions around adoption and celebrate the beautifully imperfect homes that provide children with love, stability and belonging.
Article date: 21 October 2025
This year's theme, "A Welcome Home", highlights that children don't need perfection - they need a safe, loving environment where they can thrive. New research from the You Can Adopt campaign reveals that 86% of adopters were initially worried they needed a 'perfect home' to adopt. However, many adoptive families live in rented homes, without gardens, and in modest spaces—proving that love matters more than layout.
As part of the Together for Adoption regional agency, St Helens Borough Council works with Cheshire West and Chester, Halton, Warrington, and Wigan councils to find families for children in care, with 439 children and young people in the care of St Helens Borough Council alone.
National figures show a 12% drop in adoption interest compared to last year, leaving 2,940 children waiting for a permanent home.
Councillor Nova Charlton, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
"As a council, children and young people are our number one priority so we're proud to support National Adoption Week and the message it carries. The campaign's theme, that love matters more than perfection, is one we wholeheartedly believe in. If you've ever thought about adoption but worried you weren't 'ready' or didn't have the ideal home, we want you to know: you absolutely can adopt. What matters most is your commitment to giving a child a safe, loving, and permanent home."
With delays in matching children to families now averaging 292 days, the council is urging more people to come forward. Whether you live alone, rent your home, or have a small space - what matters most is your commitment to giving a child a forever home.
To learn more or begin your adoption journey, visit https://sthelens.gov.uk/adoption or call 01942 487272.
Alternatively, you can join a virtual information session on Saturday 25 October at 9.30am where a member of the adoption team will be able to answer and questions you may have.
To book your free place, visit :https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../together-for-adoption...
ENDS