More than 30 children in the North East are currently waiting for a place to call home — not just a roof over their heads, but a family to grow with, laugh with, and belong to. That’s the powerful message behind a new campaign from Adopt North East, which is calling on people from all walks of life to consider opening their hearts and homes through adoption.

In a striking image released this week, 25 Adopt North East staff members stand side by side, each one representing a real child or sibling group who is still waiting to be adopted. It’s a moving reminder that these aren’t just numbers on a page – they are children with names, stories, and dreams.

“These are real children who deserve to grow up in a home with a family that will love and support them for life,”
— Nik Flavell, Senior Manager, Adopt North East

Why This Campaign Matters

The number of children needing permanent, loving homes has remained steady in recent years. But the number of people coming forward to adopt has declined, meaning children are now waiting longer for the safety and stability they deserve.

The latest campaign is about making that need visible — reminding us that behind every statistic is a child, and behind every child is a future that can be transformed by the right family.

Many of the 36 children currently waiting in our region are part of sibling groups, which agencies try to keep together whenever possible. They come from diverse backgrounds, and are of different ages — but all have one thing in common: they need a loving, permanent home where they can feel safe, valued, and supported as they grow.

Who Can Adopt?

You don’t need to be married, own your own home, or fit a particular family mould to adopt. Single people, LGBTQ+ adopters, renters, and those with or without children of their own are all welcomed.

What matters most is your ability to provide:

  • Unconditional love
  • A stable and supportive environment
  • A commitment to walk with a child through life’s ups and downs.

“There is no such thing as a ‘perfect’ family or adopter — just people with the right mindset and the heart and passion to make a difference to a child’s life,”
— Nik Flavell, Senior Manager, Adopt North East

Full Support Every Step of the Way

Adopt North East understands that adoption is a life-changing journey — and it’s one you won’t make alone. Their team offers dedicated guidance and lifelong support, from the very first enquiry to helping you and your child settle into life together.

Whether you’ve just started thinking about adoption or you’re ready to begin the process, Adopt North East is here to walk beside you.

What You Can Do Today

  • Start a conversation: Talk to your partner, family, or friends about adoption — even raising awareness helps.
  • Get informed: Visit www.adoptnortheast.org.uk to read about real-life stories and what adoption involves.
  • Reach out: Call 0191 643 5000 to speak to a friendly adviser and ask any questions you may have — no pressure, no obligation.
  • Share the message: Spread awareness by sharing Adopt North East’s campaign image and story on social media.

Final Thoughts

The most important thing any of us can offer a child is belonging — a safe place where they can be themselves, grow with confidence, and feel unconditionally loved.

Right now, dozens of children in the North East are waiting for that chance.

If you’ve ever considered adoption, now might be the time to take the next step. Because every day a child waits is a day too long — and your family might be exactly who they’ve been waiting for.

To find out more, visit www.adoptnortheast.org.uk or call 0191 643 5000.