Omagh couple describe adoption as an 'incredibly rewarding' experience

A COUPLE from the Omagh area have described the “incredibly rewarding” experience of adoption.

They explained that they had always wanted a family and longed for children in their lives.

Mum explained: “Having a child was always something that my husband and I had discussed and when the right time came for us, I made the phone call to the adoption team. It was something we both wanted more than anything and when you see your child for the first time you just fall in love as soon as you see them.”

Dad said: “From that initial call to the adoption team we have never looked back and now have a very active toddler who is the light of our lives!

“I know a lot of people worry about the assessment process for adoption but honestly our social worker made everything so easy for us. They came out to our house every couple of weeks to talk through many topics and others considering adopting should not fear this. It is totally understandable that the process is very thorough because ultimately you are adopting a child.

“We started our process with the Western Trust in November and we went to panel in June of the following year. As first time adopters we didn’t know how the process would work but to our delight we got a call very quickly that we were matched with a baby.”

Both parents had decided that concurrent care was best for them. This is when you have a baby from birth and go through the adoption process from there.

Mum explained: “Concurrent care is a longer process than dual approved, when the child may be slightly older when you get them, but we saw the benefit of concurrent care because our child was with us from birth and we got to build our special connection right from the very start. We did fear that it wouldn’t work out but now that we are on the other side, you quickly forget that worry. We now have the most indescribable love in our home.”

Commenting on the lack of adopters Dad said: “There are a lot of brilliant families out there that would make unbelievable parents – they should take this opportunity to provide a wonderful life to a little child. Mum added: “There is a particular shortage of concurrent carers out there and the stability that concurrent care brings to a baby is so important, as they are getting the best start in life and are able to create special and lasting bonds.

“We would encourage everyone thinking of adopting to go for it. It is definitely a journey, but a very worthwhile one. The support you get from social workers is incredible. You don’t realise the huge team involved, and how connected they keep to each other – they are all brilliant! We look forward to entering the process again to expand our family and give our toddler a sibling!”

“Make that first call to find out more information. Once that door opens it will be the best thing you ever did.”

Thinking of adopting? Come along to the Western Trust adoption information event between 7pm and 9pm on Tuesday, April 8 at the Silverbirch Hotel, (Room 4), 5 Gortin Rd, Omagh, BT79 7DH No registration needed. All are welcome.