Research

Adoption UK carries out a lot of our own research:

You can also read our reports on our campaign's web pages:

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.

We are often contacted by researchers wishing to talk to adopted people and adopters as part of their research. Below are some current opportunities. Please note that Adoption UK does not have any involvement in these projects. We always advise that you read all the information provided and talk to the researcher before deciding whether to get involved.

Adopters:

No current

Adopted adults and young people:

‘There has been very little research carried out in the UK on the experiences and views of adult adoptees. Here are some current studies where the researchers are looking for adult adoptees to be involved.’

Adoption UK is not endorsing the design of these studies. We will only share details of studies that are being carried out as part of a post-graduate university course.

Post Adoption Sibling Contact

This study is looking for people who are:

Aged 18 or over
Were adopted from local authority care in the UK
Were separated from at least one birth sibling
And went to live with your adoptive family after the 1st April 1991

This study has the aim of understanding more about the experiences of adopted adults and their relationships with their birth siblings. The research will involve an online interview to discuss your experiences. If you would like to find out more please contact Sue Austin: [email protected].

Adopted Adults’ Experiences of Accessing and Engaging with Therapy in the UK

This study is looking for people who :

Are adopted
Age 18 or over
Have accessed therapeutic support in the UK that concluded at least 12 months ago.

If you are currently experiencing severe mental health difficulties, are currently receiving therapeutic support, or are unable to give informed consent to take part then unfortunately you will not be able to participate in this study.

This postgraduate research study aims to increase understanding of the adoptee experience of accessing and engaging with therapy within the UK, whilst exploring helpful and unhelpful factors within the therapeutic process. The research will involve an online interview with the researcher lasting up to 60 minutes and will take place during April or May 2022. If you would like to find out more please contact Sarah Richards: [email protected]

A research project by the University of Manchester focusing on communication about adoption and the impact of this on an individual’s identity and sense of self.

This study is recruiting two different age groups, 16-24 years old and 25 years +.

The study is looking for people who:

Are aged 16+
Have been adopted as a child (under the age of 18 years) in the UK
Own a mobile phone/computer and have access to email.
Understand and speak English.

The interviewer will ask about your experience of adoption. This will take the form of a conversation and may include questions about how adoption has been talked about with you, and about contact with your birth family. If interested, please email [email protected]. (aged 16 – 24 years) or [email protected] (aged 25 years +). If you wish to take part, you will first be invited to a telephone conversation where the researchers can provide further information.

How do the stories we tell about adoption impact upon self-concept in adolescents?

The research team (based in the Division of Psychology and Mental Health) are interested in understanding how people learn about their
adoption and how adoption is talked about and supported within families. We aim to explore how conversations about adoption have an impact on how people feel about themselves.

The study is looking for people who:

Are aged 16-24
Have been adopted as a child (under the age of 16 years) in the UK
Would feel comfortable sharing your story in an interview with one of our researchers

Please visit the website by scanning the QR code below. Alternatively, email [email protected] If you wish to take part, you will first be invited to a telephone conversation where we can provide further information.