In the last year, 85 children in care have been adopted following the regional launch of agency Together for Adoption.

Together for Adoption brings together the adoption services of five local authorities – St Helens, Warrington and Wigan, Cheshire West, Chester and Halton.

A celebration event was held in Warrington on Wednesday, September 5 to mark the agency’s first anniversary and the 46 approved adopters spoke about their experiences.

There is still the urgent need for more adopters across the region with 23 sibling groups and 35 single children currently waiting to be adopted.

One couple who adopted a baby boy 10 weeks ago, said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better social worker and we feel privileged to have had continuing support throughout our journey.

"It’s been a rollercoaster, but it’s been a good experience and we’ve enjoyed it. Has it all been worth it? Absolutely!”

Another couple, who adopted a twin boy and girl, added: “It’s not without its challenges but I would absolutely recommend adoption.

"They have brought so much joy to our lives. We wanted a family and that’s what we’ve got.”

Cllr Joe Pearson, St Helens Council’s cabinet member for developing young people, said: “We are desperate for more adopters to come forward so our children in care can find loving, stable homes.

"If you have room in your home and your heart we would love you to get in touch and change a child’s life.

“Adoption is one of the most important aspects of work that any local authority has responsibility for and requires caring and skilled people to make it happen.

"Working with our partners across the region means those going through this journey get the best support available.”

Together for adoption was developed following Government changes announced in 2015 to the way adoption services operate by directing they be run on a regional basis by 2020.

For more information on adopting visit togetherforadoption.co.uk or 01942 487272.