Adoption East Midlands newsletter October 2025

This National Adoption Week, starting on Monday, 20 October, is all about challenging the myth that adopters need a ‘perfect home.’

Adoption East Midlands is here to support those considering adoption, reminding us that love and warmth matter far more than a spotless kitchen!

Would your child like to share with us what ‘home’ means to them? They can capture a special part of your home using photos, drawings, text, or audio. We will ensure confidentiality.

All submissions are welcome and can be sent to enquiries@adoptioneastmidlands.nottscc.gov.uk.

October is Black History Month in the UK and is an opportunity to think about how we learn from the past and shape the future and can be a time to reflect on whether we’re engaging with a diverse range of voices.

For example, staff within Adoption East Midlands have recently read and recommend both ‘Looked After: A Childhood in Care’ by Ashley John-Baptiste and ‘Eight Weeks: Looking Back, Moving Forwards, Defying the Odds’ by Baroness Lola Young; two books recently published about growing up in care. Both are available in bookshops, local libraries or as audiobooks.

You can also watch this short clip from Newsround which is an accessible explanation for children and young people. of Black History Month, with a focus on the who, why and how.

We are inviting adoptive parents to join our Education Solution Circles and workshops which are safe, welcoming spaces to explore educational challenges and share practical strategies around your young person’s education.

Led by our experienced education support workers, these virtual sessions run from September through to May 2026, offering guidance tailored to your young person’s needs.

Adoption East Midlands is launching its brand-new Voice of Adoption Junior Forum on Saturday, 18 October from 10am until 12pm.

It's designed especially for young people aged 11 to 13 and offers a safe, welcoming space to share experiences, build confidence and connect with others who understand adoption.

Through fun activities and creative discussions, participants will help shape the future of adoption support.

Don’t miss out, encourage your children to join the conversation and make their voice heard

Check out the flyer online or email us for more information.

Adoption England’s Becoming a Family pilot, developed with Oxford Brookes University, offers early, proactive support for adoptive families during their first-year post-placement.

Initial feedback highlights strong support for a consistent core offer and a shift in messaging that normalises seeking help. We have been developing our own early intervention offer and will be closely following the pilot outcomes.