Historic forced adoption - scoping study: research findings

Search and reunion

People affected by historic forced adoption described the importance of searching for and reuniting with family members separated by forced adoption. Although this process can be traumatic for some people, tracing their child or family members is a positive experience for others. For parents, this can provide reassurance that the adopted person is happy and healthy. Adoptees told us that finding and meeting their parents, siblings and extended family members can improve their sense of identity and understanding of their origins.

However, this can be an emotional process, particularly if the other person cannot be found, has died, does not want to meet, or if the relationship does not develop as hoped.

Research participants identified support required throughout the process of searching for and contacting relatives, as summarised below:

Different aspects of support are available from various sources, and there was positive feedback about the existing public, private and third sector services. However, some research participants identified some inconsistencies, gaps and areas for improvement. They wish to have access to: clear guidance about searching for family members and the support available; enhanced emotional support during search and reunion activity; and support for people who access information through social media platforms and online commercial family-finding services to understand the information they find and decide what to do with it.