THE idea of adopting a child may seem impossible to someone who is single, unemployed or over 40.

Despite having room in their hearts and their lives for a child, the incorrect belief that they are unsuitable may be putting some people off from entering the process.

Worcestershire County Council hopes to dispel misconceptions during National Adoption Week and help find families for 48 children in the county currently waiting for their ‘forever home’. There is currently a shortage of potential adopters both nationally and in the county with the council attempting to recruit 37 new families by March, 2013.

One recent adopter, Anthony, revealed that he believed the chance to adopt had passed him by after he found himself over 45 and single.

He initially registered his interest with Worcestershire County Council while in a relationship but decided it was not the right time after he broke up with his partner.

The Adoption Service got back in touch with Anthony a couple of years later when he had just become an uncle.

He said: “I honestly didn't think they'd consider me suitable to adopt. I’m single and over 45. I told them, to which they advised that there were no blanket bans so stop worrying and come along to find out more.”

Within two years of the conversation after undergoing the assessment process, he had adopted his five-year-old son. Anthony said: “Adoption may be an emotional rollercoaster but so is life. Having a child, whether through adoption or by birth, is a rollercoaster.

“But waking up and knowing there's someone there who needs you – it’s such a wonderful feeling.”

This year, National Adoption Week is using the theme ‘wishing on a star’ to share the dreams and wishes of children waiting to be adopted. An informal drop-in will take place at the Hive, Worcester tomorrow from 6pm to 8pm. Marilyn Butler, the county council’s operational manager for adoption, said there were no blanket bans and they welcomed people from different backgrounds and experiences.

She said: “Our key criteria are that you must be over 21, have patience, be flexible and energetic and have the determination and resilience to positively transform a child’s life.” Anyone thinking of adopting a child is asked to call 0800 6335442 or visit worcestershire.gov.uk/adoption.