The Adoption Barometer Report provides important evidence of the realities of adopting and being adopted. This year’s report - based on a survey of nearly 3,500 adoptees, adoptive parents and prospective adopters from across the UK - shows that those at the start of their parenting journey continue to have positive experiences overall, with 84 per cent agreeing that their training was useful and informative. However, established adoptive families, teens and adult adoptees reported some significant challenges.

Sarah Johal MBE, Adoption England's National Adoption Strategic Lead, said:

"The publication of this year's report is timely. Adoption England met with the DfE yesterday (15th June) to discuss our plans for achieving a national model of adoption support. 

"The reduction in the Fair Access Limit last year alongside uncertainty around the future of the ASGSF, has had a significant impact on many adoptive families. 

"While it's encouraging that the ASGSF has been extended and the DfE has conducted a national consultation on adoption support, we believe a broader national model of adoption support is needed which shifts the system towards earlier, more coordinated and evidence-informed support for families.

"Over the past year, Adoption England has funded projects to test new approaches to early support, encouraging innovation and building a clearer understanding of what works for families. A key strength of this progress is that it is shaped by people with lived experience. Adopted people, birth parents, adoptive families and young people are actively influencing how services are designed and delivered, helping to ensure support reflects real experiences and responds to lifelong needs.

"We look forward to working with government and partners to build a coherent national adoption support model that strengthens stability and improves outcomes for children."