A NORTH-East adoption agency has joined another organisation so it can continue finding homes for children across the region.

DFW Adoption, which is based on the outskirts of Durham, is now part of Adoption Matters, which works across the North of England.

Norman Goodwin, chief executive of Adoption Matters, said: “ DFW Adoption shares the same values and ethos as ourselves and together we want to build on the excellent reputation DFW has in the North-East using the resources of a combined and united organisation.

“We are also delighted that The Rt Rev Paul Butler the Bishop of Durham, will now join The Rt Rev Julian Henderson the Bishop of Blackburn and The Rt Rev Dr Peter Forster the Bishop of Chester as our charity presidents.”

An event was held at DFW Adoption, which is based in Stonebridge, near Neville’s Cross, yesterday to mark the merger, which was attended by Bishop Henderson and Bishop Butler.

A spokesperson for the organisation said talks about merging had been ongoing for some time.

She added: “Both agencies have an Ofsted rating of Outstanding and each have had this awarded on four consecutive inspections.

“This is a joint legacy for us to build on for the future.”