CALLS are rising for black adults to adopt as figures reveal black children are waiting 10 months longer to be adopted than their white counterparts.

Black and mixed heritage children wait on average 21 to 28 months before finding loving homes.

In light of the figures, the Oldham Council is backing a national campaign, relaunched by the Adoption Now agency this month, which encourages more black adults to consider adoption.

A low number of black adopters has been listed as one of the reasons black children remain in the social care system as many adoptive parents seek children who share a similar history and heritage to themselves.

The #YouCanAdopt campaign aims to remove misconceptions and barriers that might be preventing black people from adopting.

The campaign highlights that adults can adopt if they are single or in a relationship but unmarried, over 45 (there is no upper age limit), are unemployed or work full-time.

Councillor Eddie Moores, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “Every young person in Oldham deserves a loving home and a supportive family around them as they grow up.

“That’s why I strongly urge all families across our borough to really think about adoption because this really does make a difference to the lives of our young people.”

Heather and her partner adopted two brothers in 2018, she said: “Years ago there was a cultural thing of oh no, there’s no way I’m adopting but I say go for it.

“There’s no prejudice, I’ve had nothing but support from my family and the Black community.”

Karen Barrick, head of service at Adoption Now, said: “We have children from a variety of different backgrounds waiting for adoption, so we need families from all walks of life to come forward and provide loving and safe homes.

“So, if you’re considering adoption chances are you can, so don’t talk yourself out of it, instead talk to our friendly and professional social workers who are ready and waiting for hear from you.”

To find out more about adoption residents can contact Adoption Now on 01204 336096 or visit the agency’s website.