‘Why leave a child hanging for years?’: Adoption challenges laid bare in local conference

Imagine this: a child, eager for a loving home, waiting years for their forever family. This wasn’t a scene from a movie, but a stark reality discussed at a recent conference in Malta’s own Mediterranean Conference Centre. The event, organised by Adopt Malta, shed light on the challenges faced in local adoptions, leaving many to question: why leave a child hanging for years?

Understanding the local scene

Malta’s adoption process, while aiming to protect children and find them loving homes, often faces hurdles that can lead to lengthy delays. The conference, attended by social workers, legal professionals, and adoptive parents, delved into these complexities. One key issue? The lack of local adoptive families stepping forward.

According to Adopt Malta, there are currently around 30 children waiting for adoption in Malta. Yet, the number of local families expressing interest is worryingly low. This stark contrast was a recurring theme throughout the conference, held in the grand halls of the MCC, overlooking the bustling streets of Valletta.

Barriers and misconceptions

So, why the shortage of local adoptive families? The conference revealed several barriers and misconceptions. Some potential parents worry about the legal process, others fear the stigma attached to adoption. Some simply don’t know where to start.

Dr. Maria Gauci, a psychologist who spoke at the conference, highlighted these fears. “We need to demystify adoption,” she said. “It’s not about ‘giving’ a child to a family. It’s about finding the right family for that child.”

Success stories and the way forward

The conference wasn’t all doom and gloom. Success stories, like that of the Smiths, who adopted their daughter, Lisa, after a five-year wait, offered hope. Lisa, now a vibrant 12-year-old, was adopted when she was just six months old. Her parents, who live in Msida, credit adoption with enriching their lives.

, Adopt Malta is calling for more open conversations about adoption. They’re also pushing for streamlined legal processes and more support for adoptive families. As one conference attendee put it, “Every child deserves a family. Let’s make that happen, here in Malta.”