Research

We are committed to conducting, supporting, and disseminating research. Conducting our own research, and supporting the research of others, is essential to provide us with a strong evidence–base.

This evidence underpins much of the work we do, particularly our campaigning and lobbying efforts. With rigorous research and a strong evidence-base, we can better identify the needs of adoptive families and work more effectively to support our members.

If you would like to apply for support from Adoption UK in undertaking research then please complete Adoption UK's research request form and return it the email address on the form. We will reply to your research request as soon as possible.

Latest research Adoption UK is supporting:

Adoptees' school experiences - researchers from the University of East London are looking for adopted young people (aged 16-25 years) who are willing to discuss their experiences in education in the UK. The aim of this research is to gain a greater understanding of how adopted young people can be better supported by professionals in education. Find out more here.

Researchers from Cardiff University want to speak to adoptive parents about their children's experiences in education. Find out more here.

A second research project from Cardiff University exploring the educational experiences of adopted children who are currently in Years 10-13 (S3-6 in Scotland). The initial survey for parents is here.
Once this is completed there is a follow-up survey for adopted young people to complete.

Music Therapy Student at Bristol University West of England is looking to interview adoptive parents on how they do/do not use music to build connection with their child. Find out more here.

Latest

What governments should know about adoption

Earlier this summer, we published the first UK-wide assessment of modern adoption: the Adoption Barometer. the abiding message was that adopters are optimistic, resilient parents who find great joy and love in their children, despite dealing with the legacy of early childhood trauma on a daily basis.
Eleanor Haworth

Director of Service Delivery
Parent Partners - England

We are currently recruiting for a Parent Partners join the England team to work in the North Midlands and Mid West areas of England.
Care Inspectorate report contradicts adoptive families’ testimony on support

Adoption UK welcomes a Care Inspectorate report which shows 92% of adoption services in Scotland, relating to Care and Support, were evaluated as ‘good’ or better by inspectors, but the charity calls for more consistency across the nation.