SOCIAL services chiefs have a launched a campaign to find families willing to adopt needy local children.There are currently more than 50 youngsters waiting for a place in an appropriate home, with the most pressing need involving older children, particularly over eight years old, and siblings.

SOCIAL services chiefs have a launched a campaign to find families willing to adopt needy local children.

There are currently more than 50 youngsters waiting for a place in an appropriate home, with the most pressing need involving older children, particularly over eight years old, and siblings.

This week marks National Adoption Week and the council will be taking their message, using the slogan "Do something amazing, transform a life", into town centres.

Tony Lewis, member of the county council's executive committee, said: "National Adoption Week is a very important reminder to all of us, that there are many children needing help to find families."

Sue Allen, the new independent chairperson of the Suffolk adoption panels added: "I'm delighted to join an organisation that is putting children at the heart of its work. I hope people will respond to this campaign by coming forward."

Leaflets and posters will be handed out throughout the county all this week and staff will be available answer questions.

The campaign will form part of the local democracy roadshows in the Waveney area on Friday.

A website has been set up for information on adoption and fostering at www.suffolkadoption.com, and a freephone contact number is available on 0800 389 9417.