Adopted young people from across England came together on 27 October 2026 for a national event led by the Adoption England Youth Forum, celebrating the importance of youth voice and exploring how young people’s experiences can help shape better support and services.

Hosted by Adoption England in collaboration with Adoption UK, the event brought together almost 90 adopted young people aged 13 and over, alongside the workers who support them. Young people travelled from different regions to connect with others, share experiences and discuss the issues that matter most to them.

Planned and delivered by members of the Adoption England Youth Forum, the day put young people at the heart of the conversations, creating space for them to share their views, build connections and help shape the future of adoption support.

Making space for young people’s voices

A key focus of the day was recognising that young people’s voices should not only be heard, but also help inform decisions and drive change. By bringing young people together, the event provided an opportunity to hear different perspectives, understand shared priorities and explore what meaningful support looks like from their point of view.

The programme also included a range of activities designed to encourage creativity, wellbeing and connection. Young people could take part in laughter yoga, Qi Jong and axe throwing, as well as use a recording studio to develop music and lyrics reflecting their experiences and journeys.

These activities offered different ways for young people to express themselves, try something new and connect with others in a welcoming environment.

Building on the power of lived experience

Simon Cawthorne, Family and Community Services Manager at Adoption UK, reflected on the value of bringing young people and the adults who support them together:

“There are always learnings, of course, but to bring almost 90 adopted young people and their workers together was, in itself, another brilliant foundation for the work that will continue beyond. Embedding the voice of the Forum members from the very beginning was amazing to be part of, and they are a fantastically diverse group of passionate advocates for change.”

Sarah Johal, National Adoption Strategic Lead at Adoption England, also highlighted the value of listening to young people and acting on what they share:

“The event gave us an opportunity to hear new perspectives and better understand the priorities that matter most to adopted young people. Their message is clear: they want to be listened to, and they want to see their views lead to meaningful action. It’s important that we continue to create spaces where young people feel heard, valued and involved in shaping the support and services that affect their lives.”

Taking youth voice forward

The event was an important opportunity to celebrate the work of the Adoption England Youth Forum and the young people who continue to advocate for change. It also reinforced that listening to young people must be an ongoing commitment, with their experiences and ideas helping to shape decisions, improve services and influence future opportunities.

By bringing young people and the adults who support them together, the event laid further foundations for continued collaboration and change. The conversations and connections made throughout the day will help inform the work that continues beyond the event.

Adoption England will continue to work alongside the Youth Forum and partners to make sure adopted young people’s voices are heard, valued and reflected in the decisions that affect them. By listening to their experiences, understanding their priorities and acting on what they tell us, we can help shape more responsive support and services for adopted young people across England.