Adoption Cumbria is encouraging people in the region to consider adoption in 2026, citing an ongoing demand for permanent homes for children waiting to be placed.
National figures indicate a 12 per cent decrease in families registering to adopt compared with last year, leaving 2,940 children nationwide still in need of adoption. Cumbria, like other areas, faces a shortage of adopters, particularly for sibling groups and older children, who typically wait longer to be placed.
Vicky Davidson Boyd, Head of Service at Adoption Cumbria, said that finding suitable families for sibling groups and older children remains a challenge. She highlighted that the agency is actively seeking individuals or couples able to provide stable, permanent homes for these children.
Local adopters Deb and Kev Royston from Carlisle adopted a sibling pair aged six and three. They noted that their decision was influenced by experience in roles supporting families and children in need. They said they were particularly aware of the demand for families willing to adopt children who are harder to place, including sibling groups, older children, and children with disabilities.
Children currently waiting include siblings aged four and five. Adoption Cumbria emphasises that families do not need prior experience, and full support is available throughout the adoption process, including preparation, training, and guidance after a child joins a family.
The organisation also notes that adoption is open to a broad range of applicants. Single people, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those who rent their homes are eligible to apply. Age is not a barrier for applicants over 21, and financial status is not a determining factor.
Adoption Cumbria’s campaign aims to provide potential adopters with clear information and support to help reduce delays in finding permanent homes for children. Interested parties can start the process with an initial enquiry via adoptioncumbria.org.uk or by calling 0303 333 1216.
