A Ceredigion mother has spoken about the joy of adoption as new figures reveal that 310 children across Wales are waiting for a permanent family.

Carys, who adopted a child with her husband Aled, is encouraging others to consider adoption during National Adoption Week, which runs from 19 to 25 October.

Shortly before the couple married, Carys was told she would be unable to conceive naturally without fertility treatment.

Faced with an uncertain future, the couple explored their options before deciding to build their family through adoption.

Their experience has now become part of a national campaign encouraging more prospective parents to provide loving homes for children in care. Carys said: “When that child comes home and they’re in your hands, it’s all worth it.”

Her story comes as figures from the National Adoption Service for Wales show that the number of children waiting to be adopted has increased by 11% over the past year. Although initial enquiries from prospective adoptive parents have risen by 10%, following several years of declining interest, the need for families continues to grow.

Ceredigion County Council is supporting the campaign, which aims to challenge misconceptions about adoption and encourage people who may previously have dismissed the possibility.

Cllr Alun Williams, the council's Cabinet Member responsible for Through Age Wellbeing, said adoption provides opportunities for children to grow up in safe, stable and loving environments. He encouraged residents considering adoption to explore the support available through Adoption Mid and West Wales.

Eifion Burke, Director of the National Adoption Service for Wales, acknowledged that adoption can present challenges but stressed that families can access therapeutic services, peer networks and community support.

The campaign, entitled Now is a Good Time, uses adoptive parents' experiences to encourage others to take the first step.

Further information is available through Adoption Mid and West Wales.