Most people would agree that the best place for a child to grow up is within a stable, secure and loving family environment. Unfortunately this is not available to all children, and as a result of family difficulties, personal circumstances or backgrounds, some children cannot benefit and grow.

Children come from a range of backgrounds:

• Black, white, mixed parentage
• Different cultures and religions
• New-born babies, toddlers and school age children
• With different levels of ability and disability
• Brother and sisters who need to stay together
• Some have experienced loss, rejection and instability at a young age
• Some have been abused and neglected; emotionally, physically and sexually
• Babies born drug-withdrawn or from the effects of alcohol
• Relinquished babies