Post-adoption depression needs to be normalised, expected and proactively addressed

Dr. Lynn Snow, a paediatrician and Churchill Fellow, explores the often-overlooked issue of post-adoption depression (PAD) and its impact on adoptive families, drawing insights from her research in the U.S.and Europe to inform change in the UK. She is now championing a new pilot in Leicester to embed emotional wellbeing support for adoptive parents within the health visiting service, aiming to normalise and proactively address PAD at every stage of the adoption journey.

Jo Francis at bookstall

Supporting adoption journeys with trusted resources

At a recent adoption exchange day in London, CoramBAAF hosted a bookstall to share essential resources with prospective adopters and social workers. Popular titles like 'The adopter’s handbook' and 'Adopting a child' continue to play a key role in guiding families through the adoption journey.

Prioritising equality, diversity, and inclusion in healthcare for children in care

CoramBAAF’s Annual Health Conference brings together health professionals working with care-experienced and adopted children to focus on improving inclusive practices, with this year’s theme highlighting equality, diversity, and inclusion. Dr. Michelle Bond shares how the event encourages valuable learning, collaboration, and reflection on supporting vulnerable and marginalised groups in healthcare.

Making the case for better mental health support for children in care

James Bury, CoramBAAF’s Head of Policy, Research and Development, shares reflections on a key report that has been launched this week. ‘Increasing access to evidence-informed mental health service provision for children in care in England – National recommendations for change’ was authored by Professor Rachel Hiller alongside key academic authors and contributors and has been supported by CoramBAAF, UCL and UK Trauma Council.

Foster Care Fortnight: The power of relationships - helping children in care learn to trust and thrive

In this heartfelt conversation for Foster Care Fortnight, foster carer Paul Calder shares powerful stories that highlight the importance of consistent, compassionate relationships in helping children in care learn to trust and thrive. Through practical examples and emotional turning points, Paul emphasises how small, everyday actions can have lasting impacts on a young person’s sense of belonging and self-worth.

Why these legal guides are in every starter pack

Jo Francis introduces two of our essential short legal guides, Fostering Now and Adoption Now. The guides are designed to help social work professionals quickly access the legislation, standards, and guidance they need. Created with busy practitioners in mind, these practical, time-saving resources are ideal for anyone working in fostering or adoption.

Policy developments in the children’s sector

As the government rolls out its policy agenda, staying informed is crucial for our members. We have written a brief overview of the most recent developments to help you stay up to date.