POTENTIAL parents looking to adopt are urged to contact the council as part of National Adoption Week (November 4-10).

Hampshire County Council is asking anyone who might be considering adoption to contact the Adoption and Fostering service for more information.

Up to 60 children need a new home across the county at any one time and adults are asked to help.

Many of these children have suffered abuse or neglect.

Over the past twelve months the council has homed 61 successful adoptions and wants to hear from people over the age of 21 willing to become parents.

Cllr Keith Mans, executive lead member for Children’s Services, said: “Being a parent is richly rewarding. Children across Hampshire need families who can open their home and their hearts to care for, nurture and support them for the rest of their lives. Finding the right homes for Hampshire children and supporting our adopters is our priority.

“We consider all enquiries on an individual basis and are keen to hear from anyone who feels they have what it takes to be an adoptive parent”.

For more information call 0845 603 5620 or go online to hants.gov.uk/adoption.