Team offer support on adoptions

A new team has been set up to offer support to anyone in Staffordshire who has been affected by adoption.

The county's adoption support team, based in Uttoxeter, offers a whole host of free and confidential support services to adoptive families, adopted adults, birth parents and relatives.

The seven-strong team, which includes five experienced social workers and their support staff, is the first point of call for anyone in the county who needs information, support and guidance on adoption related issues.

For some people, this could be simple advice and information over the phone.

On other occasions, the team provides more intensive support, working closely with families and visiting them in their homes. The county council's cabinet member for children and young people, Councillor Peter Beresford said: "Adoption affects one in 10 people nationally. In Staffordshire, this means that there could be just over 82,000 people looking for some level of help and support. If you are one of those people, please contact Staffordshire's adoption support team."

In addition to individual support, the team can offer regular support groups, workshops and family events for adoptive families. Those wishing to contact Staffordshire's Adoption Support Team can call the support line on 0845 33 00 401; e-mail to adoptionsupport@staffordshire.gov.uk or write to Adoption Support Team, Red Gables, 59 High Street, Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, ST14 7JQ.