Natural Parents' Network

The Natural Parents' Network is a self-help organisation which offers non-judgemental, confidential and independent support to people who have been affected by adoption. The NPN provides a listening ear and, in particular, is concerned with the needs of natural parents living with the memories, emotions and feelings of the adoption of their children, the resulting separation and possibility of contact and reunion.

NPN is a national organisation and has helped over 1200 members since its inception in 1987. It is managed by a committee of birth parents on a voluntary basis, acting as trustees. In addition, trained co-ordinators provide a local contact for members and arrange meetings for them in their local area. Membership is open to natural parents and their relatives and to organisations that have an interest in adoption. NPN is active in the following ways.

• Liaises with local social services departments and adoption agencies.
• Takes part in preparation and post-adoption groups for adoptive parents.(Some members are participants on adoption panels.)
• Makes its views and experiences known to those involved in adoption policy and practice.
• Responds to requests from the media, researchers and students without breach of confidentiality.
• Supports and advises those wishing to trace an adoptee, as well as helping with contact and reunion.
• Circulates a regular newsletter to all its members.