Abena’s adoption story

Abena lives in Islington with her four children. She talks about the challenges of the adoption process, the importance of support and how her adopted daughter changed her life

Back in the late 1990s, I was a mum to three children. Life was full-on. But, as a teacher, I knew there were children in care who needed a new start and, though I was working full-time, I felt I was in a good position to adopt. Islington is a safe borough with a mixed culture, and we had our big, extended Ghanaian family living nearby.

So, I prepared myself and my family. I researched a lot. Even then, there were books about adopting. Now there is all kinds of information available: from podcasts, to blogs, to adoption support organisations like We Are Family. Adopted children need parents who can advocate on their behalf, so research is key.

Family matters

New Family Hubs – one-stop shops for family support

Islington’s first Family Hub is opening its doors this summer at New River Green Children’s Centre, offering a welcoming and inclusive way to access services for families: from conception right up to 19 years old. People with special educational needs and disabilities can access hub services until they are 25 years old.

Whatever you need, you’ll find it at the the hubs, making it easier to get the help you need at the right time. The hubs will also provide Start for Life services

During the adoption process, my Islington social worker helped me on what was an emotionally challenging journey. The process was educational and confusing, but after my child came to live with me, I started to understand why certain questions were asked. Fortunately, I didn’t live far from the Islington adoption team’s office, so I could pop in or call up my social worker, who was always there to help.

Jaimie came to our family when she was under two years old, and we just loved being together. It hasn’t been easy, as a single parent, but all my children inspire me, and Jaimie is no different. She makes us proud.

Though my older children have moved out, Jaimie is close to her siblings, nieces and nephews. We are still working through the impact of her early life experiences, but she has taught me so much. I always saw things in black and white. She taught me that there are so many colours in between.

If you are an adoptive parent, you can join the We Are Family peer support group, a community run by adopters, for adopters: wearefamilyadoption.org.uk

Find out more about adoption: adoptlondon.org.uk for the critical 1,001 days from conception to age two.

The New River Green site is Family Hub Central: two more hubs will open at a later date, in the north and south of Islington. These will act as single ‘front doors’ for families and, as well as delivering many services onsite, will be the first points of access for wider services delivered across the borough.

Join Islington families and staff for a celebration event to launch the hubs at New River Green Children’s Centre on Saturday 15 July, 10am–1pm. Bring the whole family to enjoy activities, music, dancing and healthy food.

If you’d like to help shape Family Hubs, join the parent/ carer panel: islington.gov.uk/ FamilyHubs