"After my baby was adopted over forty years ago I never forgot him. I often wondered if he was still alive and if he was in good health. I worried if he fought in the Falklands war or had be been in the Hillsborough disaster. When I visited London I wondered if he was a drop-out living on the streets. My mind could never rest….

When I regained contact with him it was traumatic. All I really wanted was my lost baby but now he was an adult. I was sad for all those lost years. But I felt proud of him as he was well and has lived a decent life…."

We are very grateful to S. for sharing her personal story. She has also given some useful advice about what birth parents may want to do.

You may wish to use the contact registers. If your adult adopted child has already registered their details, a link will be made and both parties will be informed. There are two Contact Registers in existence, listed below.

For Birthparents who do not know where they can get help and advice from !!

Natural Parents Network is a self-help organisation, which offers non-judgmental, confidential and independent support to people who share similar experiences. It provides the opportunity to be listened to for those living with the memories and feelings that surround the adoption of their children, the resulting separation and for some, the emotions around contact and reunion.

NPN operates nationwide and has helped over 1400 members since it started in 1987. it is managed by a committee of natural parents acting as trustees on a voluntary basis. Trained co-ordinators provide a contact for members and arrange meetings for them locally.

Membership is open to natural parents and their relatives and to organisations that have an interest in adoption."