Change lives this summer

The children had experienced many moves in their short lives before mum and dad and children became a family of four. 

Adam said that he and Jan felt prepared to meet the needs of their children, with thanks to PACT’s support and training which Adam described as: “in-depth and highlighted a lot of the needs and opened our eyes wide. It was clear that every child would have some sort of need.” 

In the last ten years, the family have accessed a variety of free and expert support through PACT and said it’s important to be open to accepting support when needed, to continue to build the strongest family through the years. 

The couple’s family and friends accessed training before the two became four to learn about the challenges the family may face and how best they could support them all in the initial stages of placement. 

The family have attended the family fun days which the couple said, ‘are a great opportunity to mingle with other adoptive families in similar position in a safe environment without judgement!’ 

“PACT’s education specialist Amy has been our saviour over the last four years,” said Adam.

“Amy was there with me for meetings with the local authority and schools, offering her advice and assistance on what was needed for the placement to work.” 

Turning to PACT’s team of Adoption Champions was really valuable. Adam said: “To offload and get advice from people who have been through a similar situation or have professional experience from their day jobs is like gold.” 

The family have also accessed formal therapy for both children which was arranged through PACT who deal the adoption support fund process and arranged a therapist.  

“Contacting PACT for support is easy and you are quickly put in touch with the right team to get advice or progress any support you need. 

‘Adopting through PACT has been the best decision we made on our adoption journey. Knowing you always have a contact for advice and support when you need it is priceless; there is a wealth of support and knowledge available from them and PACT go the extra mile to ensure both you and the children are supported until they are at least 18 years and sometimes beyond.”

Last year PACT supported over 400 children and families, just like Adam and Jan’s, across its range of trauma recovery activities.

*Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.