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Find people who can help you with adoption queries

When you have been adopted or are in the process of adopting someone, there are a range of people able to help you - such as social workers, adoption panels and adoption advisors.

For more information read 'The adoption process and where to get support'.

• The process of adopting a 'looked-after' child

If you were adopted before 1975

To access your adoption records, you need to attend an informal meeting with one of:

• an approved adoption advisor for confidential guidance,
• your local Social Services or another local authority, at the General Register Office or at the agency that handled your adoption

Your original birth information is sent to your chosen approved adoption advisor.

If you were adopted before 1975 and live abroad

It is possible for the informal meeting to take place in the country where you are currently residing, as long as a suitable body or organisation is available.

You can find approved overseas adoption organisations by contacting the General Register Office on 0151 471 4830.

If your country or area of residence is not covered, you can contact a local counselling organisation. You will need to supply written confirmation from the organisation that has agreed to help you to the General Register Office, which then sends information about your birth record to your advisor.

If you would prefer to travel to the UK, you can arrange a meeting with an adoption advisor in the area where you will be staying. Adequate notice of your visit should be given to Social Services so that arrangements can be made in advance.

Why you have to see an adoption advisor

Before 1975, many parents were led to believe that the adopted child would never find out their original name or the names of their parents. Legislation changes now allow adopted people to discover their original details. It is important that you understand what this might mean, for yourself and your birth relatives, and the adoption advisor assists with this.

If you were you adopted after 1975

You have a choice whether you would like to see an approved adoption advisor or have the information sent to you directly. You may find it helpful to see an adoption advisor, as they can offer practical advice and guidance as well as discussing any concerns or issues.

If you were you adopted after 1975 and live overseas

It is possible to meet with an adoption advisor in the country where you are currently residing if you wish, as long as a suitable body or organisation is available.

You can access a list of approved overseas adoption organisations by contacting the General Register Office on 0151 471 4830

Further information

• Old adoption files and what they contain

• Finding your original birth or adoption record