A single dad from Huddersfield has paid tribute to his three children after being named adopter champion of the year.

Inspirational Ben Carpenter, 31, received the award at ’s annual National Adoption Week Awards in London.

He was nominated by his social worker and was shortlisted from entries from across the UK.

As a single dad Ben has dedicated his life to raising his children, all of whom have a range of profound physical and developmental needs.

Having spent many years working with children with additional needs, Benjamin adopted his first child through Kirklees Council in 2010, a boy now aged eight, who has autism and OCD linked with autism.

He then went on to adopt two sisters. The oldest, aged five, suffers from a congenital condition called Pierre Robin syndrome, visual impairment and scoliosis of the spine, whilst her three year-old sister is profoundly deaf.

All children have made significant progress since being adopted and have surprised social workers and medical professionals alike.

Ben has recently been approved to adopt for a fourth time and hopes he can be matched with a child with Down’s syndrome.

Ben said: “All I’ve ever wanted is to be a dad and adoption is the route I chose. Before adopting I felt that something was missing.

“Many people tell me that what I’m doing is extraordinary but I feel very lucky to have my children.”

First4adoption

As well as being a dad, Ben works part-time as a school lunchtime supervisor while also teaching sign language on a voluntary basis.

He also gives regular talks at Kirklees Council’s adopter training courses.

Benjamin added: “Children with disabilities face a lot of uncertainty in their lives. My eldest daughter was placed for adoption when she was five months old but because of her many health needs she received little interest.

“But to look at her now it’s amazing because she’s overcome so much, going from not been able to walk, to running about despite often being in pain.

“A child could have health issues from the outset or further down the line. You can sit and worry about all the health issues that these children might have but the fact is that once you adopt them, they become part of your family. They are your children so you just get on with it.”

Benjamin urged people to think about adopting disabled children and added: “Some think they won’t be able to look after a child with additional needs but what they don’t realise is that they are strong anyway because they’ve come forward to adopt.

“Of course adopting a disabled child isn’t for everyone and any child that comes into your home has to be right for your circumstances.

“But it’s about looking at all the possibilities and opening your heart and home to the children who are crying out for a parent who will give them the love they so desperately need.”

To find out more about adopting ring Kirklees Council’s adoption team on 0800 028 3001 or visit www.kirklees.gov.uk/adoption