A NEW campaign has been launched to encourage people in Essex to consider adoption.

The county was chosen to pilot the campaign with the aim of finding families for children waiting to be adopted.

There are about 440 children in the east of England waiting for a home.

More families are being urged to come forward and welcome them into their homes.

The idea is those who have already adopted speak about their experiences with prospective adopters and is being supported by First4Adoption, a national adoption information service.

Gemma Gordon-Johnson, head of service at First4Adoption, said: “We want this campaign to mark a new era in the recruitment of adopters.

“There have been important improvements in the adoption system that has made it easier to place children with families as quickly as possible.

“We need more people in the East of England and beyond to come forward and start their adoption story if the needs of all children, for who adoption is the best option, are going to be met.”

If you are interested in adopting a child, visit first4adoption.org.uk or call 0300 222 0022.