PEOPLE with personal experience of adoption are being invited to help shape the future of adoption services across the South West.

This is through the new ‘Voice & Influence Reference Group’.

Set up by Adopt South West, the group will bring together adoptees, birth relatives and adopters to share their experiences, provide feedback and play a key role in influencing how services are developed and improved.

The group will meet online every other month, with occasional opportunities for face-to-face meetings across the region.

Organisers say it will provide a safe, welcoming and accessible space where members can share their views and ensure adoption services reflect the needs of those who use them.

Members will be able to comment on plans, proposals and service developments, helping to highlight what is working well and identify areas where improvements could be made.

The group will also provide Adopt South West with deeper insight into people’s experiences beyond traditional feedback methods.

Support will be available for participants, including travel reimbursement and vouchers in recognition of their time and contributions.

Anyone interested in joining the Voice & Influence Reference Group can contact Sophie Holmes, Participation Lead for Adopt South West, at [email protected].