News

On 11 May 2026, professionals from across the UK gathered in London for the CoramBAAF Adoption Conference 2026: Can modern adoption meet the needs of today’s children and families? A thought-provoking day focused on the future of adoption, identity, and the growing need for lifelong support for adopted children and families.

A strong theme throughout the conference was the recognition that adoption support cannot end at placement or childhood. Speakers repeatedly highlighted that adoption is a lifelong journey, and that services must evolve to better meet the changing and often complex needs of adopted people throughout their lives.

In a powerful keynote address, Hon Dame Mrs Justice Frances Judd DBE reflected on how adoption has changed significantly over the past century, despite legislation remaining relatively stable. She spoke about the importance of identity, the long-term impact of trauma, and the need to learn from the past while continuing to improve services for the future. A key message was that adoption changes legal status, but it does not remove the need for ongoing understanding, connection, and support.

Research presentations from Professor Julie Selwyn and Dr Sarah Hamilton shared findings from the Family Routes study, which explored the experiences of adoptive and special guardianship families. The research highlighted how challenges often intensify during adolescence, particularly around identity, mental health, education, and relationships. Families spoke about the importance of earlier intervention, trauma-informed support, and regular “check-ins” to prevent crises escalating.

The conference also explored the experiences of adult adoptees and the gaps that many face once they turn 18. Discussions focused on access to records, intermediary support, identity, reunion services, and the ongoing need for therapeutic and peer support into adulthood.

Workshops throughout the day covered a range of important topics including adoption support services, recruitment and engagement of prospective adopters, health services, and working compassionately with birth families. Sessions reinforced the importance of child-centred, trauma-informed and relationship-based practice across all areas of adoption work.

One message stood out clearly across the conference: modern adoption must continue to evolve to meet the realities faced by today’s children and families. This includes improving access to timely support, strengthening understanding of trauma and identity, and ensuring adopted people and their families feel supported not just in the early years, but throughout life.

At the National Adoption Service for Wales, we recognise the importance of continuing to listen, learn and evolve alongside the needs of adopted children, young people, adults and families. The themes explored throughout the conference reinforced the importance of lifelong, trauma-informed support, strong relationships, and ensuring children’s identity and experiences remain at the heart of adoption practice. As a national service, we remain committed to working collaboratively across Wales to strengthen support, share learning, and continue developing services that meet the changing needs of children and families at every stage of their adoption journey.