BUDDING young artists are being asked to design a picture to encourage people to think about adoption in Hillingdon.

Many people think they would not be suitable for adoption, but there is no typical adopter and the council welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds.

Poster entries should help promote the message that all residents are welcome to apply, regardless of their age, ethnicity or marital status.

Hillingdon’s 'Adoption is ... ' art competition is open to all school children in the borough. As well as having their work used in publicity on the council website and social media, competition winners will receive £50 (first place), £25 (second place) or £15 (third place) in gift vouchers.

There are three categories for entries: Infant (up to year 2), Junior (years 3-6) and Secondary (years 7-11). Designs must be created by hand, in colour and on one side of A4 (template is available). Your name, age and school must be written on the back of your design.

Cllr David Simmonds, cabinet member for children's services, said: "Hillingdon is looking for adopters who can provide a good start in life for children.”

Completed designs can be handed in at the Civic Centre or posted to Adoption Design Competition, Adoption Team, Civic Centre, High Street, Uxbridge, UB8 1UW.

For more information, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/adoption