Quote from Fergus McCarthy on October 24, 2024, 2:10 pm

The National Adoption Service for Wales (NAS) marks its 10-year anniversary this National Adoption Week (21-27 October), celebrating a decade of bringing families together. Since its establishment in 2014, NAS has transformed adoption services in Wales. They have placed over 3,000 children with 2,300 families and providing vital support throughout the adoption journey.

A modern approach to adoption

NAS has developed a modern, child-centred approach to adoption, ensuring prospective adopters understand the needs of the children waiting for homes. The service also supports beyond the adoption process, helping families thrive long-term.

Suzanne Griffiths, Director of NAS since 2015, reflects on the organisation’s impact: “I am proud of all we’ve achieved, delivering the best possible outcomes for thousands of children across Wales. Our collaborative efforts with local government and the voluntary sector have made a real difference.”

The changing face of adoption service for Wales

Over the past decade, adoption trends in Wales have evolved. NAS now supports more children with complex needs, sibling groups, and older children. In addition, the diversity of prospective adopters has expanded.

Suzanne explains: “We’ve seen a significant increase in LGBTQ+ adopters, with a quarter of adoptions in Wales now by same-sex couples, compared to just one in 10 in 2012. Single-parent adopters and a wider range of ages are also more common in today’s adoption landscape.”

Pioneering support services

NAS has introduced several pioneering support services, including the UK-leading ‘life journey work’ framework. This helps adopted children understand their identity and stay connected to their birth families.

The award-winning podcast Truth Be Told offers a space for adoptive parents and young people to share their experiences, helping to shape public perception and influence policy changes.

Celebrating a decade of adoption service for Wales

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, NAS is hosting a series of events across Wales, inviting the adoption community to come together. These events will inspire the creation of art and music, which will be showcased at regional exhibitions. The celebration will culminate in a final exhibition at the Norwegian Church Arts Centre on 6 November 2024.

To learn more about adoption in Wales, visit Adopt Cymru.

As NAS looks to the future, its commitment to supporting families across Wales remains as strong as ever, ensuring that children in need find the loving, stable homes they deserve.