A NORTH-EAST charity has launched an appeal to find people interested in adopting a child.

The appeal by Barnardo's North East coincides with national adoption week.

The charity says it wants to hear from anyone – no matter what race, religion, age or sexual orientation.

Julie McVeigh, assistant director of Barnardo’s, said couples did need to be married, but should be in stable relationships and single people were welcome to apply.

“We want to encourage people who may never have considered adopting to think about what they have to offer. There is no doubt that it is a major step, it can be hard work and very demanding, but the rewards can be immense.

“We are looking for people who will help children get the best out of life, be supportive of them at school, encourage them to do well and be advocates for them.”

The charity's fostering and adoption team is holding an open evening at their base in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, where people can find out more about adoption, talk to social workers and adopters and take away literature to read and think about.

Anyone interested in adoption should contact Barnardo’s on 0191 492 9000, or go along to the open evening at on Thursday, November 8, between 6pm and 8pm, at Barnardo’s, Lumley Court, Drum Industrial Estate, Chester-le-Street, DH2 1AN.