Ofsted have praised Barnardo’s Adoption Services in England as ‘outstanding’ in a new report.
The inspection, which took place earlier this year and was published in April, highlighted that children have “exceptional relationships with their parents which are built on trust and love” and quoted an adopted child saying “we feel safe now”.
Barnardo’s Adoption Services help families to adopt across England, as well as access to records for adopted adults and birth family members.
One adopter, quoted in the report, wrote: “Staff were genuinely invested in us as a family, not simply in progressing a process. Through Barnardo’s we have formed lifelong friendships with other adoptive families.”
The report added that “the service plays a significant role in promoting stability, identity and emotional wellbeing for both children and adults impacted by adoption”.
Nicki Williams, UK Head of Service Development & Quality at Barnardo’s, said: “We are delighted with the Outstanding judgement for our five England adoption services. It is much deserved recognition for the excellent work carried out by our teams to support children and families, outlining how we go above and beyond to provide emotional, practical and therapeutic support.
“The feedback from our children and families speaks for itself and we encourage anyone thinking of adopting, to consider Barnardo’s.”
During the 2024/2025 year, Barnardo’s supported more than 359,000 children, young people, parents and carers, through 669 services and partnerships.
Find out more about adopting with Barnardo’s