Barking and Dagenham Council is proudly supporting #NationalAdoptionWeek and is calling residents to consider adoption to help children looking for a permanent home.

National Adoption Week runs from 16 to 22 October and to mark the week a compelling and heartwarming series of portraits that capture the essence of adoption and its transformative journey has been released. The image series, crafted by the royal fashion designer and photographer, Philip Sinden, tell the stories of eight care leavers, all of whom were adopted between the 1960s and the 2010s.

The series aims to shed light on how adoption has profoundly shaped and continues to influence their lives, as well as how it has evolved over the years. The series also includes a short film, documenting the personal experiences of the subjects during the photoshoot.

The sentiments of Isabelle, an adoptee from the 1980s who shares her journey in the film alongside her adopted son Nathanial, adopted in the 2010s. Isabelle states, "Adoption is not a line in the sand between one life and another. It is something that should be open and celebrated – and I'm passionate about doing that with both my children." Her words reflect the deep emotional significance of acknowledging one's roots and the profound impact it has on adopted individuals and their families.

Councillor Jane Jones, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care & Disabilities, said: “We are extremely proud to be supporting National Adoption Week. There is still a huge need for more people to come forward to adopt and I would urge anyone who is considering adopting to get in touch with our Adoption team to find out more about the variety of support and services available to help you on this incredible journey.

“This National Adoption Week, we want people to find out more about adoption. People from all walks of life can make wonderful adoptive parents who could provide a loving, stable home for young people who need them.

Philip Sinden, shares his personal experience, stating, "It is encouraging to see and hear from some of the stars of our portraits about how positive they feel about their experiences and how much adoption has evolved."

National Adoption Week, encourages all to explore the multifaceted world of adoption. To find out more about National Adoption Week or to seek information and support, please visit www.adoptlondon.org.uk.