Families across Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Plymouth, and Torbay are being encouraged to consider adoption this National Adoption Week and discover how the everyday moments of family life can mean everything to a child.
National Adoption Week takes place from 19 to 25 October 2026 and this year’s theme, Every Day is Everything, shines a light on the ordinary moments that help children feel safe, loved and like they belong.
From breakfast around the table and after-school chats to trips to the park and bedtime routines, the campaign celebrates the small moments that make up family life. While they may seem ordinary, for a child who has experienced uncertainty and instability, having someone there every day can mean everything.
As part of the campaign, Adopt South West will be sharing a series of short films featuring children and families enjoying everyday life together, helping to show how simple moments can shape a child’s future and sense of belonging.
Amanda White, Head of Service for Adopt South West, said:
“Often when people think about adoption, they focus on the big milestones, but for children waiting for an adoptive family it’s the everyday moments that really matter. Having someone to encourage and care, be there for the school run, help with homework, celebrate successes and provide comfort on difficult days can make a life-changing difference.
“National Adoption Week is an opportunity to celebrate adoption, and remind people that adopters don’t need to be perfect. I’d encourage anyone considering adoption to find out more. What children need most is stability, love and someone who will be there for them every day.”
Across England, children spend an average of 646 days waiting for a permanent family, meaning many children spend significant periods of their childhood without the security and stability of a forever home.
To help people find out more about adoption, Adopt South West will also be hosting informal drop-in sessions at libraries across the region during National Adoption Week.
The sessions will take place from 10am at:
- Barnstaple Library – Monday 19 October
- Exeter Library – Tuesday 20 October
- Newton Abbot Library – Wednesday 21 October
- Plymouth Central Library – Wednesday 21 October
- Paignton Library – Thursday 22 October
- Taunton Library – Friday 23 October
Members of the Adopt South West team will be available to answer questions, explain the adoption process and discuss the support available before, during and after adoption.
Liza Barry, from Plymouth, adopted her eldest daughter in 2013 and her youngest daughter in 2019.
She said:
“I was a single adopter working full time when I adopted my oldest daughter and later my youngest. Neither of those things was a barrier to adoption, despite me worrying that I wouldn’t be considered.
“There are so many amazing children who need safe, loving families. If you’ve ever thought about adoption, I’d encourage you to find out more and have a conversation. It could be the start of something life-changing.”
Councillor Richard Jefferies, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“Every child deserves to grow up feeling loved, supported and part of a family. This campaign is a powerful reminder that it’s often the everyday moments that have the biggest impact on a child’s life.
“We know there are people across the South West who could offer a child the security and sense of belonging they need. If you’re curious about adoption, I’d encourage you to come along to one of the library drop-ins and find out more.”
Adopt South West welcomes enquiries from people of all backgrounds. Whether you’re single, married, in a relationship, rent or own your home, the most important qualities are the ability to provide a safe, stable and loving home.
To find out more about adoption, visit adoptsouthwest.org.uk, come along to one of the National Adoption Week drop-in sessions, or join one of our information events: https://devon.cc/AdoptSouthWestInformationEvents2026