CYP Now - 'Archaic’ model for adopted children's contact with birth families needs reform, say researchers

The adoption system should move away from an “outdated” model of letterbox contact with birth families towards face-to-face and digital communication, according to a major new report.

The programme will be linked to the roll out of new family hubs. Picture: Adobe Stock

Changes to the way adopted children interact with birth families must be underpinned by staff training, say researchers - Adobe Stock

The adoption sub-group of the Public Law Working Group has called for “wholesale reform” of the adoption system in its report Recommendations for best practice in respect of adoption.

The report, which has been in the pipeline for four years focuses on five areas: international adoption; consensual adoption; access to adoption records; processes and procedures in court; and contact.

It states that “the model of adoption has adapted and changed over the years, and that more needs to be done to make it effective now, including making use of digital tools for both training, information and contact”.

Researchers say that while in the original model for adoption was based on children being “relinquished” at birth, now most adopted children have been within the children’s social care system.

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