Oxfordshire couple adopt daughter after discussing it on first date

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

An Oxfordshire couple who discussed adoption on their first date in 2015 have adopted their two-year-old daughter Posy.

An Oxfordshire couple who discussed adoption on their first date have made their dream a reality. Rachel and Dave, from west Oxfordshire, brought home their two-year-old daughter Posy on 21 February 2025. They are sharing their story ahead of National Adoption Week to encourage others to consider adoption.

Posy joined their family through the early permanence adoption programme, which allows approved adopters to first care for a child as foster carers before formally adopting them if the court approves the plan. Rachel said: 'Early permanence has given us the most beautiful gift; we've bonded with Posy in a way we never thought possible, and in such a short space of time.' She described Posy as 'smiley, confident, bubbly and definitely mischievous, always with a twinkle in her eye'.

Dave said: 'I switch to children's TV channels for Posy; however, her protests force my hand on race day if she realises I'd been watching F1. Thank you, an extra unexpected gift through adoption, a daughter who, like me, is a petrol head.' The couple are now experiencing parenthood milestones with Posy, including her first word—'doggy'—a reference to their pet cockapoo, Winston.

How it is being reported

• Young couple's adoption dream comes true with arrival of daughterRachel and Dave, who began talking about adoption when they were just 18 and 20 years old in 2015, brought home their daughter Posy.Oxfordshire Guardian · 18 Oct, 05:00
• Young couple's adoption dream comes true with arrival of daughterRachel and Dave, who began talking about adoption when they were just 18 and 20 years old in 2015, brought home their daughter Posy.Oxford Mail · 18 Oct, 05:00

In this story: Rachel · Dave · Posy · Oxfordshire · Winston

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