Adoption East Midlands newsletter September 2025

Tuesday 9 September 2025 is International FASD Awareness Day.

We were delighted to have Rossi and Jan Griffin join us at a recent Adoption East Midlands’ webinar to talk about all things FASD and specifically about Rossi’s new book about living with FASD. We even had the pleasure of hearing Rossi read a chapter from the book.

We are excited to announce the launch of our brand-new Instagram profile where you will be able to access adoption information, events and much more to support anyone throughout their adoption journey. Our new Instagram will be live from Friday 5 September and we are looking forward to joining the Instagram adoption community.

Support us by following our new Instagram profile or by searching @adoptioneastmidlands on Instagram. Look out for reels, polls and posts from our team in the coming weeks. We would love for you to engage with us – please like, comment, and share!

Join us from 10am until 12pm at a vibrant new Derby venue on Saturday 4 October for a relaxed morning of connection with fellow adoptive families.

Children can enjoy the playground or a movie and receive a free main meal. Spaces are limited, so book on here to avoid disappointment. You can always get in touch with our Peers team via email if you want to know more about this service at peers4peers@adoptioneastmidlands.nottscc.gov.uk.

You can also check out our exciting new Peers4Peers promo video on YouTube.

Join Derby City Virtual School for four engaging one-hour sessions exploring brain development, calming strategies for you and your child, the power of connection and practical strategies for encouraging positive choices.

Sessions will take place on Thursday 25 September, Thursday 16 October, Thursday 6 November and Thursday 4 December at a venue in Derby. Please note that spaces are limited.

There will be further sessions starting in January 2026 around self-harm awareness, anxiety and emotion coaching.

Explore sensory play and connect with other adoptive families in our Parent and Child Sensory Group exclusively for pre-school aged children.

Led by experienced practitioners, this five-week in person programme runs Tuesdays from 4th November to 2nd December at a venue in Mansfield Woodhouse, with additional virtual check-ins either side.

Sessions support your child’s sensory development in a fun, nurturing environment. Find out more on our Hub or reserve your place using the booking form.

Looking for something fun and meaningful to do this half-term? Join us this October for exciting events designed especially for adopted young people!

These gatherings are all about building friendships, boosting confidence, and growing self-esteem in a safe, supportive space. Whether you're hoping to meet new friends or discover your strengths, there's something for everyone.

So come as you are, leave with new connections and confidence and that your voice is valued and will be sought throughout the day.

On Friday 19 September, 2025, we are celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and others (LGBT+) Parents and Carers Day! The day shines a light on the vibrant and diverse community of LGBT+ parents, carers, and their children.

Our service will also be attending an upcoming webinar presented by Proud2bParents, to further raise our awareness through exploring the lived experiences, challenges, and strengths of LGBT+ parents and carers.