Be the difference in each other’s lives

Could you be the difference in a child's life? Could they be the difference in yours? If you're considering fostering or adoption, come to our open day on Monday, 2 December at Number One Riverside.

For prospective adoptive parents the event takes place from 6.30pm - 8.30pm and for foster carers from 5.30pm - 7.30pm.

There will be a presentation and the opportunity to listen to an adoptive parent about their experience of adopting and giving a child a forever family. Information packs will be available to all who attend.

Anyone interested in fostering will be able to speak with social workers about the children waiting for a temporary, yet loving home. We're especially keen on speaking to Rochdale borough residents who can provide homes to older children, teenagers and siblings.

Fostering is a rewarding ‘career’ and full support is given to people who decide to provide a loving, caring temporary home to a child. They will get support from their own supervising social worker and the child’s social worker. Other professionals will also support them, including health, education and mental health services.

Financial support is available too with up to £413.82 per week from approval and then up to £224.45 per week additional payment when a young person is in your care

Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, Councillor Donna Martin says: “More than 700 children need adopting every year in the North West. Adoption is very rewarding, fulfilling and most importantly gives a vulnerable child a home, parents and a loving family.”

This event is part of Rochdale Council’s ‘Be The Difference’ campaign, encouraging members of the public to find out more about adoption or fostering with the aim of recruiting adoptive parents for some of Rochdale’s most vulnerable children.

As long as you’re over 21 and have a spare bedroom, you can apply to adopt. There is no restriction to adoption – you can be single, over 45, from any background. You get a dedicated social worker who is prepared to support and advocate for you to become an adoptive parent.

One mum who adopted with Rochdale Borough Council said: “My husband and I decided to adopt after I found I was no longer able to have children naturally. We adopted a wonderful two-year-old little girl. It may sound odd, but we continue to be so thrilled when she comes for a cuddle, tells us she loves us, gives us a beaming smile. Moments like these make our hearts flip with joy and love for her.”

There is also financial support available in the form of statutory adoption leave pay, child tax credits and additional support depending on your circumstances.

For more information about adoption, call 0300 303 1000 or visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/bethedifference/