Who we help
SWAN is a small independent local charity which aims to help people affected by adoption who live in the areas where we have contracts to do this work.
Our work is governed by laws, regulations and principles of good practice. We aim to use these to help us provide short term services that help people deal with the issues they are exploring. In 2011 OFSTED has judged SWAN Good at doing this and our services to our clients as Outstanding. They quoted services users reporting:
“exceptional staff commitment and dedication”
SWAN helps people in the following circumstances:
Birth parents of children affected by adoption – people whose children may have an adoption plan, or who may be adopted and the parent needs help with understanding the process, contact, or dealing with how they are feeling. This service can also be available to other birth relatives such as grandparents, siblings etc The SWAN service aims to be independent of but also complement the other services that may be involved with the adoption plan.
Adopted adults – people who want to find out about the circumstances of their birth, perhaps with a view to finding their birth relatives; or people who want some time to reflect on their feelings or experience of being adopted. Part of this service is free and part we have to charge for. Please see the dedicated page for more information.
Birth relatives of adopted adults – people in this group can be helped to make contact with relatives separated by adoption; can be given an opportunity to reflect on their experience; can be supported when reunions are unsuccessful.
Adoptive family members – adoptive families can have extra difficult periods or issues to deal with from time to time. SWAN can offer specialist support with issues such as those surrounding adolescence, risk of disruption, and reopening communications, dealing with change.
Professionals – the SWAN Helpline can assist professionals in finding their way through some of the complexities of adoption support. SWAN workers also work as far as possible with service users permission in partnership with other professionals to promote the welfare of any children affected by our work.