During National Adoption Week, which runs until October 25, the National Adoption Service for Wales is urging people across the country to think about adoption as they plan their families.

The call comes as part of the service’s Now is a Good Time campaign, now in its second year, which highlights the life-changing moments when parents decide to start the adoption process.

Eifion Burke, director of the National Adoption Service Wales, said: “National Adoption Week provides a great

to share and celebrate the joy created for many families in Wales through adoption.

“As I begin my journey as director, I want to take this opportunity to thank all those families who have opened their homes, and to encourage more to come forward.”

Initial adoption enquiries across Wales have risen by 10 per cent over the past year, following a period of decline.

However, the need for adoptive families has also grown, with a current rise in the number of children waiting to be adopted.

This year, the number of children on the waiting list has increased by 11 per cent, bringing the total to 310.

Among those encouraging others to consider adoption is Carys, a parent who adopted through Adoption Mid and West Wales.

Carys said: “When that child comes home and they’re in your hands, it’s all worth it.

“There’s never the perfect time. The perfect time is when they’re home.”

Cllr Jane Tremlett, cabinet member for adult social services and children and families at Carmarthenshire County Council, said: “Adoption can provide children with the stable, safe homes they need to thrive, while also helping people create the family they’ve always hoped for.

“National Adoption Week is a chance to celebrate adoptive families across our region and encourage anyone considering adoption to find out more about the support available through Adoption Mid and West Wales.”

Mr Burke said: “Adoption can bring unique challenges, but it is also an incredibly rewarding journey.

“We want people to know that no one adopts alone.

“A wide range of support is available to children and adoptive families across Wales, including therapeutic services, peer networks and community-based support, helping families to build strong, positive and lasting relationships.

“Adoption is one of the most powerful ways we can change a child’s future.

“My vision is for Wales to continue leading the way in delivering high-quality adoption services, ensuring that every child, adoptive family and birth family has the support they need not only to overcome challenges, but to flourish and reach their full potential.”