PACT adoptive families from Northamptonshire came together recently at Stanwick Lakes to develop social connections and mutual support as they continue their post-placement journeys.
The meet-up provided a unique opportunity for their children, all under the age of five and each recently placed with their adoptive families, to explore the outdoors while their parents built essential support networks.
The morning was filled with exploration as the children engaged with the natural surroundings, navigating the play areas and enjoying a shared lunch. For the young children, the setting provided a relaxed space to socialise together. For the parents, the gathering offered an opportunity to connect with others who share the unique experiences associated with the early stages of adoption.
The shared experience of watching their children play together while discussing the journey of adoption was described by participants as: “a great way to meet other people and share stories with people who understand the journey of adoption.”
These interactions help build social connections for the children and essential support networks for the adults.
PACT’s Adoption team manager Ana Billeness said: “This event underscores the vital role of peer support in the adoption community.
“Connecting with those who have similar lived experiences is widely recognised as a key factor in long-term stability and family wellbeing for adoptive families.
“Peer groups provide a dedicated space to discuss topics such as transitions, attachment, and the emotional process of welcoming a new child into a home. These are topics that can be most effectively understood by those within the adoption community.
“By gathering at a local landmark like Stanwick Lakes, these families combined the benefits of the outdoors with the practical advantages of community building.
“Following the success of this initial meeting, the Milton Keynes adoption team is planning future gatherings to ensure our local families can continue to support one another as their children grow. “
Anyone interested in finding out about becoming a parent through adoption can start their journey with PACT here or to support PACT’s vital work visit our support us pages
