Will you start the journey of a lifetime and grow your family

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Will you start the journey of a lifetime and grow your family?

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Adopters from all walks of life are sharing their journeys, highlighting that like all family trips, adoption is an experience that's full of adventure, challenges, chaos and conversation - but most importantly, love.

Knowsley Council - as part of the regional adoption agency for Merseyside - is supporting the new campaign The Journey inspiring people to take the first step towards growing their family.

One of those is adoptive father-of-two Miles Asteri, star of the BBC's The Traitors. Miles said:

"Adoption has always been a part of my life, as my mother was also adopted, and so we knew it would be the right way to grow our family. Before you adopt it's natural to have lot of questions or worries. But I don't think anyone truly feels prepared for the experience of becoming a parent until their child makes them one. Like all families with young kids, we've had our chaotic moments, but it's been rewarding like nothing else - watching our daughters grow into the wonderful little people they are is an unparalleled feeling. I would urge anyone thinking about adoption to just start that journey - for us, it's been the adventure of a lifetime."

Many people hold back from starting their adoption journeys because they're waiting for the 'perfect' time or circumstances - but for a child in need of a permanent home, the perfect time is now.

Like any new parents, many prospective adopters worry about their ability to cope - but with adoption, this is a journey you can navigate together, with support available along the way.

For the first time in recent years, there are now more children in need of adoption than those coming forward to adopt.

Cllr Lonergan, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Children's Services, said:

"We know for many potential parents, there are worries about practical and financial support and being an adoptive parent is no different but there is lifelong support available at every step with Adoption in Merseyside."

He added:

"AiM's brilliant staff constantly strive to find the right match for our children. The more people we have taking the first step to grow their family the sooner those potential parents and our children can start their own adventure of a lifetime.

"I'd urge anyone who has been thinking about adoption to reach out to Adoption in Merseyside and start your journey today."

Kath Drescher, The Head of Service for Adoption in Merseyside (AiM) added:

"We're encouraging anyone considering adoption to take the first step in their journey - don't wait for the 'perfect' time. Like all parenting, adoption is not always easy and there will be bumps in the road, but there is lots of support available - including, emotional and therapeutic. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about growing their family to just take that first step."

You Can Adopt is a nationwide adopter recruitment programme run by Adoption England and supported by Adoption in Merseyside (AiM) which recruits adopters for local authorities in Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral.

To find out more about adoption and taking that first step on your journey towards growing your family visit: www.adoptioninmerseyside.co.uk

Film caption: a short film which follows six families reflecting on the ups and downs of their 'family journeys' and adoptive family life.

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