Diagrama FoundationOne adoptive mother, who welcomed two siblings through early permanence and maintained communication via a 'contact book,' also known as the ‘letterbox’ told us,
“Writing updates for the birth parents helped us build a relationship. In return, they gave us photos and letters, which will be so valuable for our girls when they’re older.”
The ‘letterbox’ method is a form of indirect contact used in adoption to facilitate communication between adopted children and their birth families. It involves exchanging letters, photographs, or updates through an intermediary, such as a social worker or adoption agency, rather than direct interaction between the child and birth family.
A 2023 PAC-UK report revealed that only 54% of individuals adopted since the 1990s had some form of contact with their birth family during childhood. Of these, 62% regretted the lack of contact, highlighting the importance of these connections for a child's sense of identity.
The report also revealed that 76% said that direct contact should be standard practice where it is deemed safe and recommended that agencies should look to recruit adopters who are open to direct contact.
https://www.pac-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/PAC-UK-Big-Consult-of-Adopted-People-FINAL.pdf
The best interests of adopted children are our priority and we provide guidance to adoptive parents on how to communicate effectively to ensure that we maintain a connection to help the adopted child to understand their origins and identity.
The ‘letterbox’ system has worked well for many years but some experts now feel that the method can feel impersonal and inadequate for a child's emotional needs and are encouraging more in-person contact when safe and appropriate, rather than relying solely on letter exchanges.
We are committed to facilitating and supporting contact arrangements that serve the best interests of adopted children and are always open to exploring new ideas and following new guidance. We provide advice to adoptive families on establishing and maintaining appropriate communication with birth families, recognising that these relationships can significantly enhance a child's understanding of their heritage and personal history.
Kate Patel
