Children up for adoption in the county have more chance of finding a family after Essex Social Services Adoption Agency increased the number of families it approved by 65 per cent.

The agency hit its target of recruiting and aproving 75 adopters in 2001/2002 compared to 45 in 1999/2000, an aim set as a result of the high number of children being referred to the service.

In the past three years the number of children being referred to the agency has doubled, which means Essex Social Services are always looking for more adoptive parents.

Single people as well as couples can adopt and there is no upper age limit.

The only set criteria to be an adopter is that you must be over 21, in good heath, committed and able to meet the needs of children awaiting adoption.

Cabinet member for children's services and schools, Councillor Iris Pummell said: "It is great news that we have reached our target for the year.

"It's important that we carry on this excellent service as the number of children referred to Essex Adoption Agency remains high."

The figures come after Essex County Council were awarded with the Government's prestigious Beacon status for their adoption service provision.

(Taken from the Essex Chronicle)