Recommendation 23

HM Government · verbatim extract Accepted in Part

PARTIALLY ACCEPT The Government recognises the importance of strengthening the evidence base and ensuring that the experiences of those affected continue to inform understanding and policy development. To support this, the Government will commission a testimonials project to capture the experiences of those affected by historic forced adoption practices. This will ensure that their voices are recognised and that lessons continue to be learned over time. The Government also recognises that the current evidence base is limited, and that any further large-scale research would need to be carefully scoped to ensure it is meaningful, proportionate, and deliverable. It will therefore take a phased and targeted approach to strengthening the evidence base. In the first instance, we will: Work with NHS England to improve how relevant information is recorded and understood within existing systems, including exploring the appropriate use of markers in health records where individuals wish this to be recorded. Use emerging data and insight from these improvements to better understand needs, outcomes, and demand for services over time. This approach will allow Government to build a stronger and more reliable evidence base grounded in real-world data, rather than commissioning large scale research before sufficient data is available. In addition, the Government will establish a reference group of individuals with lived experience to review progress against the measures set out. This will support transparency and ensure that ongoing work remains informed by lived experience. The Government will keep the need for further research under review, including whether more targeted or exploratory work, such as feasibility studies or focused qualitative research, would add value as this evidence base develops. The Government has taken an important step in recognising past failures through the formal apology delivered by the Prime Minister. We are committed to ensuring that this is accompanied by meaningful and practical action. The Government’s response is informed not only by the Committee’s recommendations, but also by direct engagement with those affected. The package of measures announced alongside the apology reflects the importance of improving access to information, strengthening support, and ensuring that services respond more effectively to the needs of those affected. The Government will continue to consider these issues carefully and work with relevant partners to ensure that the response remains proportionate, deliverable and informed by those affected.