Meet the Adopter events to be held in Wigan as children continue to wait for families

Prospective adopters are invited to hear first-hand experiences from families who have transformed children's lives through adoption. 

Children's charity and voluntary adoption agency, Adoption Matters, which covers Wigan, is inviting people considering adoption to hear directly from those who have already taken the life-changing step, through a new series of online "Meet the Adopter" events. 

Following the success of earlier sessions featuring solo adopter Michelle and adopters Jo and Damian, which attracted more than 30 attendees, Adoption Matters has announced two further opportunities for people interested in adoption to ask questions and gain an honest insight into the adoption journey. 

On Tuesday September 22 at 7pm, participants can meet Qadeer, who adopted three children with his husband through Adoption Matters.

A second event on Tuesday November 3 at 7.30pm will feature Steve, who adopted his son with his wife through the charity. 

The free online events provide an informal and supportive setting for attendees to hear real-life adoption stories, ask questions and speak with both adopters and experienced members of the Adoption Matters team. 

The sessions complement the charity's regular monthly information events, which provide a more detailed overview of the adoption process, the support available to families and the children currently waiting for adoption. 

The events come at a time when the need for adoptive families remains critical.

Latest figures show that across England there are 3,010 children waiting for adoption, while only 1,350 adopters have been approved, leaving many children waiting longer than necessary to find a permanent, loving home. 

Jacqui Shore (pictured above), Director of Adoption and Fostering at Adoption Matters, said: 

Anyone interested in learning more about adoption is encouraged to register for the events at www.adoptionmatters.org/events/