COUNTY couples are being urged to think about adopting a child during this week's special National Adoption Week.

Worcestershire County Council's adoption team is looking for 25 new adoptive homes.

Members of the team will be spreading the word about the benefits that adoption has to a child's life during the week, which runs until Sunday, November 12.

Permanent families are needed for a wide range of children, including the very young, older children, and youngsters with black and dual heritage backgrounds.

All of the children who need care have complex backgrounds.

Geri Clegg, Worcestershire County Council's marketing and communications officer for the adoption team, said: "We are hoping that National Adoption Week will raise awareness across the county.

"Some people have never given a thought to adoption, but now is the ideal chance for them to come forward and talk about personal situations and the options that are available to them. The process can be rigorous, but we want to reassure people that we are here to help potential adopters through all of the many steps.

"Nine out of 10 people who go through the assessment are approved to adopt."

For more information about what is involved contact the adoption team on 0800 028 2158 or visit www.worcestershire.gov. uk/adoption