Stars share family photos for new adoption appeal
CELEBRITIES including Prue Leith and Olympic sprinter Jamie Baulch have shared their memories of adoption to encourage more people to consider helping a child.
Welsh sportsman Jamie joined the Great British Bake Off judge in revealing personal images for Barnardo’s Adoption Week.
Jamie was adopted by his parents Alan and Marilyn aged six and grew up near Newport.
“I had such a lovely childhood,” he said. “I have so many wonderful memories of going on holiday with my family and these trips really helped me to form important relationships with my brothers and sisters.
“I remember always being carried by my dad on his shoulders and have been told that I always used to pull silly faces because it got me attention!”
“Spending time together to create happy memories and have a good childhood is crucial, as it strengthens family bonds. There are so many children waiting to be adopted who deserve a fulfilling childhood.”
Stars taking part in the latest campaign were chosen because they had either adopted a child (or two) or were adopted themselves.
Prue Leith, is pictured on holiday with Cambodian daughter Li-Da, who was orphaned by the Khmer Rouge and adopted at 16 months.
She said: “Best decision we ever made.”
Musician KT Tunstall who was adopted by David and Rosemarie Tunstall when she was just 18 days old said: “My parents used to take us on these epic hikes in the Scottish highlands as kids.
“I look back on them with real fondness. It was lovely family time, hanging out together, camping, enjoying the outdoors”
Singer and former X Factor star Sinitta, who adopted her children, said: “Being a parent is the hardest job in the world but the most rewarding.
“My children are the greatest loves of my life. Love is thicker than blood; it’s the love that lasts eternally.”
BMX rider and designer John Buultjens was taken into care aged seven. He said: “My parents Marianna and Eldridge chose me, and while our DNA doesn’t match, we are a loving family.
“They opened up a gateway to a positive life I didn’t see possible and thanks to their love and encouragement I am the happy, adventurous person I am today.”
Now, the children’s charity is calling for more people to consider adopting.
There are currently 1,089 children across the UK desperately waiting to find loving, stable families.
Barnardo’s is particularly looking for adopters who can welcome older children, siblings, those from different ethnic minorities and disabled children into their lives.
Chief executive Javed Khan said: “Sadly, some children have a very difficult start in life and don’t have many positive memories, but you can change that and help them to build a better future.
“Whether you are a single parent, an LGBT couple, someone with grown up children or have just always wanted to start a family, we want to hear from you.
“By opening your heart and your home you really could transform a vulnerable child’s life for the better.”
■ To find out more about adoption visit www.barnardos.org.uk/adoption.