International Adoption Guide

This day, 6 years ago, my son and I became a family. I stood in the hallowed halls of the Russian Family Court and heard the words, "The Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation and the City of St Petersburg now award you CT permanent custody of the orphan child XX"

A shocking story of how our system has failed vulnerable unprotected children.

Today's figures reveal that only 60 babies were adopted in the UK last year, which means many are unnecessarily languishing in care. News reports and articles are siting all sorts of reasons.

Ah, how totally wonderful, to witness the touching completing of a family though the adoption of a little girl from Pakistan.

I have just watched the first part of the very honest BBC 2 documentary of a couple adopting from Pakistan - incredible.

There has been a recent pro international adoption fight back against major organisations who are jeopardising the lives of millions of children by outdated modes and fears. This is the latest from the Carnegie Council.

Today when I was walking to school with my son, he was, as usual holding firmly onto my hand. He has a very strong grip which gives both him and I the feeling of safety.

Common sense prevails, at long last. I am so grateful that at last adoption is being taken seriously in the high ranks of government, with the appointment of Martin Narey as Ministerial Advisor on Adoption.

Dr Jane Aronson, Pediatrician and CEO of Worldwide Orphans Foundation writes from the field in Bulgaria