Janet Daby, Minister for Children and Families
Adopt London hosted an unforgettable staff conference, where we had the privilege of welcoming Janet Daby, Minister for Children and Families. The event focused on the powerful and uplifting work of the Black Adoption Project — a London based project committed to creating better futures for Black children in need of loving, supportive homes.
Photo by jamiesmith.photo
Minister for Children and Families, Janet Daby said:
“Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, loving home and adoption makes this happen for so many children. I was moved by the brilliant work of the Black Adoption Project, which is breaking down barriers to adoption for people from all races and backgrounds.
“Through our £9m investment to boost recruitment and improve support in England, we’re encouraging people from all communities to come forward as adopters and transform a child’s life.”
Shared moments by an adopted young person
One of the most moving moments of the day came when an incredible young person, adopted when she was around six months old, shared her story. Now 18, she spoke with grace and honesty about what adoption has meant to her. She reflected on the importance of being placed with her older brother and how that bond is fundamental in her life. Her words painted a picture of love, connection, and the profound impact of being able to grow up alongside her sibling.
While her adoption journey has been filled with love and support from her family, she also bravely shared the challenges she faced during her education years — a reality many adopted children experience. Despite those difficulties, her story is one of resilience and hope. Inspired by the care and dedication of the social workers in placement and support and her parents who shaped her life, she’s now looking to study Health and Social Care. Her dream? To make a difference for children coming into care in the future. 💜
Let’s Talk About Adoption
The conference also gave a platform to two Black single mums, who shared their experiences of adoption and the support they received. Their voices highlighted the importance of culturally sensitive, inclusive adoption practices — a core mission of the Black Adoption Project.
Both mums, alongside other Black adoptive parents are set to transform the support available to families entering the adoption process. Let’s Talk About Adoption is a pilot featuring a vibrant community of Black adopters ready to share their journeys and provide a strong backbone of support for prospective adopters – including support for prospective Black dads. This initiative is designed to nurture, uplift, and encourage families who might otherwise step away from the adoption process without ever welcoming a child into their home. By offering real-life experiences and compassionate guidance, this community is creating a safe and empowering space for future adoptive parents and working alongside assessing social workers.
One of the facilitators for the new group and an adoptive parent said,
“Knowing that Black children wait three times as long to be adopted is heartbreaking … Adopting my two sons was the best decision I ever made – they are my everything. I’m so pleased that the Black Adoption Project is striving for better equality throughout the adoption process. I’m happy to be a part of the Project and support those creating their families through adoption.”
The future of Black adoption
Adopt London shared important updates about the Black Adoption Project and the pilots being developed to address the needs of Black children and families. The event this week was an inspiring reminder of why this work matters and the importance of collaboration in building a fairer, more supportive adoption system.
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