We are pleased to announce the launch of the report in collaboration with University of East Anglia: Pre-Adoption Order Disruptions in England: Learning from disruption reports 2017–2024. This research sheds light on the complex and often challenging transition period between leaving foster care and settling into their new adoptive home.

Each year, around 3,000 children are adopted in England. While most placements are successful, around 2.5% of them disrupt before the Adoption Order is made—affecting approximately 479 children and families since 2019. Although the numbers are relatively low, the emotional impact on all involved can be significant.

The report explores why these disruptions occur and how they are experienced by those involved. Using disruption reports from Regional Adoption Agencies, professional focus groups, and co-produced workshops with adoptive parents and practitioners, the research highlights that the key challenges lie in communication breakdowns between adopters, foster carers, and professionals.

The findings aim to support better practice and help reduce disruption by ensuring that everyone involved in a child’s transition is informed, supported and working collaboratively.