Maintaining relationships: Information for birth relatives
Resources to help birth families stay connected
Adoption England has worked with the Research Centre for Children and Families (RCCF) at the University of Sydney in Australia to make helpful guides for birth families. These guides give simple tips to help you keep a good connection with your child after adoption.
Resources
Being your best self at family time
This guide gives easy tips for birth families who see their child in person or speak on the phone. It helps you make the most of your time together by:
- Sharing ideas for positive and kind conversations
- Giving ways to cope with strong feelings
- Helping everyone feel safe and respected
The aim is to help you and your child feel calm and connected during family time.
Being your best self at Family Time (PDF, 115 KB)
Being your best self when staying in touch
This short guide gives advice for birth parents who keep in touch after adoption. Staying in touch can mean visits, phone calls, letters, or sharing updates.
The guide includes:
- Tips to get ready for contact
- Help with feelings before, during, and after contact
- Ideas for building safe and positive connections
It is designed to help you feel confident and supported.
Being your best self when staying in touch (PDF, 115 KB)
Light in the Dark: Emotional support for birth parents
This guide is for birth parents who feel sad or worried after adoption. It gives gentle advice to help you look after your feelings.
Remember: asking for help is strong, not weak. Everyone has feelings, and this guide helps you feel less alone.
It includes:
- Reassurance that your feelings are normal
- Tips for coping with grief and loss
- Encouragement to get support when you need it
You are not alone. This guide is here for you.
Light in the Dark: Emotional support for birth parents (PDF, 90 KB)
Nourishing the sparks of connection
Children grow best when they feel loved and safe. For adopted children, staying connected with birth parents (when safe) helps them feel secure.
This guide gives:
- Simple ways to connect in a safe and respectful way
- Tips for building trust over time
- Help with feelings during contact
Even small moments matter. This guide encourages hope and connection.
