Research call: Are you a single adoptive parent in the UK?

Get involved in PhD research study led by Walk Together founder, Susie James

 

The research explores the realities of post-adoption support for single adoptive parents in the UK. ​ If you chose to adopt as a single parent, your experience matters. Your voice can help shape future services, highlight gaps in support, and influence the way single adoptive families are understood and cared for.

 

This study has a simple aim:
to better understand whether support for single adoptive parents is meeting families’ needs - and where it is falling short.

 

Who we are looking for

The study is seeking UK-based single adoptive parents who meet the following criteria:

 

One: You adopted as a single parent

You must have been single at the time you adopted, even if you are now in a relationship.
(You may also have biological children - that is absolutely fine.)

 

Two: You adopted through a UK agency or local authority

• Participants must be living in the UK and have completed their adoption through a UK system.

​​

Three: You are open to a one-off online interview

The study involves a confidential one-hour interview held online (via Microsoft Teams).

• Participation is fully voluntary, completely anonymous and can be arranged at a time that suits you.

• Interviews are expected to take place from March 2026, following final ethics approval from the University of Bradford.

 

Your privacy and confidentiality

This research follows University of Bradford ethical and GDPR standards.

• All personal information (such as your name or email address) will be held in a secure, password-protected OneDrive folder.

• All identifying details will be removed from transcripts and final reporting.

• Your story will never be linked back to you.
   

Why your experience matters

Single adoptive parents often navigate unique challenges before, during and after adoption.
This research aims to highlight:

• where support feels strong

• where families are being left to cope alone

• how services can evolve to better meet the needs of single-parent adoptive families

Your insight could genuinely influence how future families are supported.

 

Interested in taking part?

If you meet the criteria - or know someone who might - we would love to hear from you.

 

You can express interest, ask questions or request further information by contacting Susie directly on info below.