Resources for Indirect Letterbox Contact in Adoption

Research in Practice have developed a learning resource area to help practitioners who are establishing or supporting indirect letterbox contact in adoption. The learning modules have information tailored for younger and older children and features exercises that can be used to consolidate learning.

The report is an in-depth study of the first large-scale digital alternative to traditional letterbox contact. Led by Adoption England in collaboration with University of East Anglia, the report tracks how six Regional Adoption Agencies introduced the Letter Swap platform, what helped or hindered its rollout and, crucially, how adoptive parents and birth relatives experienced it. 

Download the full report to see the key findings and recommendations.

The research looks at how the Letter Swap digital platform is helping adopted children, birth relatives and adopters stay in touch one year on from its pilot. Commissioned by Adoption England and carried out by the University of East Anglia, the study combines platform data, surveys and interviews across several Regional Adoption Agencies. The briefing also sets out practical guidance for agencies on implementation, safeguarding and emotional support so that digital contact works safely and sustainably for all involved. 

Download the full briefing to see the key recommendations and next steps.