An adoption agency in the Tees Valley is marking its fifth birthday and families that have adopted children and welcomed them into their homes have shared their experience of Adoption Tees Valley.
For one couple, their adopted daughter completed their family, following failed rounds of IVF.
Simon and Ellen Cross already had a little girl of their own when they got in touch with Adoption Tees Valley.
The couple, who live in a village south of Middlesbrough, were eager for another child but decided to consider adoption after two failed rounds of IVF.
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They got in touch with Middlesbrough Council and were pointed in the direction of the newly formed Adoption Tees Valley.
Within a year, they had been introduced to the baby girl that would become their second daughter. Now, six years on, life is good.
Ellen said: “The social workers at Adoption Tees Valley really became an ally for us, like all adoptive parents. They got to know us as a family and were completely on our side as they guided us through the process.”
After having such a positive experience with Adoption Tees Valley, Ellen made the decision to become an adoption panel member.
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She is now part of the process, helping to match families with children who are in search of their forever homes.
Simon and Ellen’s youngest daughter, who is now seven, has a full, happy life. She is excelling in reading, and loves swimming, music, going to Beavers and horse riding.
She does have some problems with her gross motor skills, but the family has found activities, like horse riding, are improving her core strength.
Ellen added: “Adoption has brought so much to our lives. We have expanded our family and now we get to enjoy experiencing everything together and watching her grow and achieve her goals. It has even changed my life as I’m now a volunteer and part of the adoption panel. It is really rewarding.
“Anyone thinking of adoption should remember that, at times, it won’t be easy, but parenting never is. And all children are different, adopted or not. If you come across issues, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Adoption Tees Valley provides so much support and is just a phone call away.”
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Simon and Ellen’s advice for adopters: “You don’t have to go out and research everything to do with adoption. Pick up the phone and speak to adoption services or join adoption Facebook groups for advice.”
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