A new financial support package has been launched in the North East to help more children waiting for adoption find permanent families.
Adoption agencies across the region are working together on the North East Secure Start pilot, which will offer eligible prospective adopters a one-off payment of £10,000.
The scheme has been introduced in response to a shortage of adoptive families, with around 200 children in the North East currently waiting for adoption.
Those behind the pilot say financial pressures, including the continued impact of the cost-of-living crisis, may be stopping some people from coming forward to adopt, even when they could offer a stable and loving home.
The support package is designed to help with some of the practical costs that can come with preparing for a child, baby or sibling group to join a family. This may include preparing a home, buying essential items, arranging suitable transport or taking unpaid time away from work.
Adopters are expected to take adoption leave when a child joins their family, helping them build early bonds and attachments. However, adoption leave arrangements vary between employers, while self-employed people do not have access to paid adoption leave.
The scheme may also support single adopters, families on lower incomes and those with limited savings.
Danielle, who adopted in 2023, said the pilot could make a real difference to people who want to adopt but are worried about the financial impact.
She said: “I think the Secure Start pilot will make a big difference to families who want to adopt but don’t think they are in the place financially to have full adoption leave or prepare their house for a child.
“It’s one thing you can’t fully prepare for because I don’t think you realise how much kids cost until you have them.
“We were lucky to have a small savings pot and a family who were more than prepared to buy bits and bobs for our little girl’s arrival, but not everyone is in that position and would still make fantastic parents.”
Nik Flavell, Project Chair of the North East Secure Start pilot, said the scheme is focused on helping children find families sooner.
Nik said: “At the heart of this pilot are North East children who are waiting, often far too long, for the stability and love of a permanent family.
“The Secure Start Package is designed to remove some of the financial barriers that can delay people in our region from coming forward, so more children can be welcomed into safe, nurturing homes as quickly as possible and begin to settle, build attachments and thrive.”
To be eligible for the £10,000 support package, applicants must live in the North East, have less than £1,000 disposable income per month after essential bills, have savings below £2,500, and have limited or no access to paid adoption leave.
Prospective adopters must also enquire with one of the participating agencies by 31 July 2026.
The pilot is being offered through Adopt Coast to Coast, Adopt North East, Adoption Tees Valley and ARC Adoption North East.
All prospective adopters will still go through the usual in-depth adoption assessment process, which considers their motivation, suitability and a child’s long-term needs. Preparation training and ongoing support will also be provided by participating agencies.
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