We Are Family
We Are Family is a peer to peer support community by adopters, for adopters. For ten years they have supported families online and in person, at parents’ groups, events, and talks offering mutual support, resources, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption.
Support for adoptive families
We Are Family believe that by coming together, sharing experience and understanding, adopters can help each other to thrive. Founded and led by adoptive parents, We Are Family reflects and responds to its members, helping them navigate the challenges and joys that adoption brings.
We Are Family partner with Adopt London to provide WAF Talks, the successful webinar programme for adoptive parents. Specialist webinars run for We Are Family members throughout the year and can be watched back at any time after the event through the Member Hub.
Membership is free and open to families from Stage One of the UK adoption process and anyone who has had a child placed or adopted (check to see which level of membership you are eligible for). To join WAF Talks live or watch any of the talks on demand, as well as to access support groups and resources please join here. If you are already a member and want to register for a talk log in here.
Adoption Shared podcasts
The Adoption Shared podcast is created by the We Are Family adoption support community in partnership with Adopt London. Its mission is to inform, support, and amplify the voices of adopters. Hosted by Eddie Elliott, each episode features conversations with adopters and professionals who share their insights and experiences from diverse perspectives on the adoption journey. We’ve listed a selection of podcasts here, but you can also search ‘Adoption Shared’ wherever you listen to your podcasts.
WAF Talks webinars
WAF Talks are a series of expert-led webinars hosted by We Are Family for adoptive parents and prospective adopters. These sessions feature professionals and individuals with lived experience who share practical strategies, insights, and guidance on topics such as trauma, attachment, identity, and education. You can sign up and attend live or episodes can be accessed on-demand offering flexibility for busy parents. Each session provides a rich library of resources to help adopters navigate challenges and feel connected to a supportive community.
Parenting adopted children with ADHD
Parenting adopted children with ADHD and Co-occurring conditionals and support available
Why bright kids with SEN fall through the cracks
Watch Sarah Palmer of Enable Law, an expert in SEN advocacy, to learn why these children are often missed.
Helping Adopted Boys Feel Seen
Helping Adopted Boys Feel Seen is about creating safer, connected, identity affirming school environments.
WAF Meet-ups
We Are Family’s parent and peer support groups are a great opportunity to meet other parents and prospective adopters. Some events are virtual meet-ups and some are held in-person. You’ll find a welcoming community ready to listen and support you and there is something for everyone. Please keep revisiting this section for new sessions.
Richmond Family Meet Up, Kneller Gdns
Join other adoptive families at this popular park this summer. Facilities include a Cafe, two mini football pitches, a tennis court, a basketball court, play equipment for under 13s, as well outdoor gym equipment.
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
North London Peer Support Daytime Session in N15
Meet up in person with other adopters in South Tottenham during the school day for peer support, shared understanding, and the chance to connect with like-minded families. ( 1.5hours)
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
WAF Parents of Teens and Tweens Online Support Group
Join volunteer Anita and other parents on Zoom for a peer support session specifically for adoptive parents of teens and tweens. This online group is a safe space and not suitable for children or young people.
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
WAF East & North London Online Peer Support Group
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
Family meet up Ice-skating
An opportunity to meet and socialise with other adoptive families, and have fun on the ice skating rink this summer.
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
WAF South London Annual Family Picnic
Bring your picnics and blankets and join other adopters with their children for an afternoon of socialising in the park 12:00pm until 14:00pm.
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
South London Playgroup - Peckham Playroom
Join London adoptive families at this play group for young pre school children.
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
Parents of Young Adults (17-25+) Peer Support Group
Join parents of young adults aged 17-25+ from 19:00pm until 21:00pm for advice, empathy, signposting and peer to peer support.
For more information about the specific We Are Family meet‑ups listed here, or to explore the full range of in‑person and online events WAF offers to its members, please sign up or log in to your Member Hub account.
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