Families Invited to Adoption Event as 190 Children Await Homes

Families are encouraged to explore adoption opportunities at a special event organized by ARC Adoption North East. On January 21, 2026, the agency will participate in Big Adoption Day 2026, joining other voluntary adoption organizations across the UK. The event takes place at the North East Business and Innovation Centre in Sunderland, starting at 18:00. With 190 children in the region currently waiting for adoption, the event serves to highlight the importance of finding loving homes for these children.

Attendees will have the chance to meet the dedicated team at ARC Adoption North East, who will provide insights into the adoption process and the support available for both children and families. Terry Fitzpatrick, OBE, Director at ARC, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are delighted to join our fellow voluntary adoption agencies on Big Adoption Day. It is a day for celebrating families that have come together through adoption as well as highlighting the ongoing need for more adoptive families for children in our area.”

The statistics are concerning, as nearly half of the children waiting to be adopted in the North East have been in this situation for more than 18 months. ARC aims to recruit at least 40 families each year and plans to increase the number of ‘foster to adopt’ placements. This strategy seeks to reduce the number of placement moves for children, enhancing stability in their lives.

Last year, ARC supported 26 new families in their adoption journeys, allowing them to spend their first Christmas with their adopted children. Fitzpatrick noted the growing disparity between the number of families coming forward to adopt and the number of children in care needing homes. “This year we will be doing our utmost to reduce this,” he affirmed.

Richard and John Paul from Tyne and Wear shared their positive experience with ARC, having adopted for the second time last year. They initially adopted their daughter in 2021 and welcomed their son into the family in 2022. Reflecting on their journey, they remarked, “When we first met the team, we were given so much useful information, and everyone we met and interacted with from our initial interest onwards were so warm, welcoming and professional.”

The couple emphasized the importance of support in the adoption process, particularly in helping their daughter adjust to the changes in their family dynamics. They encourage others considering adoption to attend information events to gather insights and ask questions. “You’ll get a feeling if it is right for you,” they advised.

At the event on January 21, Richard will share his experiences of adopting twice to help answer any questions attendees may have. In addition, ARC has scheduled a second information session for families unable to attend on January 21. This session will take place on Saturday, January 24, at 10:00, allowing more families to engage with the adoption process.

Tickets for both events are free and can be booked through the ARC website, ensuring that anyone interested in adopting has the opportunity to learn more about the process and the support available.