Resource Library
Here is a list of helpful (and more importantly FREE) resources that I have compiled over the past few years whilst working within the donor conception community. I love to share new information, research and downloads with you all, as and when I come across them.
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If you are an organisation that has your own resource relating to donor conception that you would like to see featured here, feel free to contact me to discuss this further.
For…
Parents
Basic Principles for Understanding the Needs and Perspectives of Donor Conceived People
This document has been produced by New Zealand based advocacy group, Donor Conceived Aotearoa. The ‘Basic Principles for Understanding the Needs and Perpectives of Donor Conceived Individuals’ is a research supported resource aimed at informing parents and professionals.
A guide for people who have LGBTQ+ parents and were born via Donor Conception and/or Surrogacy
A comprehensive guide updated in 2023 by COLAGE – A US based organisation supporting young people being raised by one or more LGBTQ+ parents. Written from the perspective of the donor conceived person, this resource also has a lot to offer parents from all types of families.
Free DCN leaflet on known donation: ‘Closer Connections - When the egg, sperm or embryo donor is someone you know'
Produced by UK based non profit the Donor Conception Network, this is a thorough guide designed to assist anyone who is considering using a ‘known’ donor.
Free Web Resource - Donor Conception – Supporting Your Loved One
For Friends & Family – This free resource has been produced by Paths to Parenthub, and is designed to be given to friends and family of those who are building their family via donor conception. The resource encourages open conversations to take place and how these discussions can be fostered with loved ones, leading to a better understanding of the beginnings of a family story.
Free Download - The ‘Nugget’ Series Recharged
The helpful toolbox of tips, advice and resources for parents of donor conceived children. Produced by Hayley, this guide will provide you with:
• Real life examples of how to talk to your children about their conception story
• Practical tips that you can implement today
• Tools to build your confidence and bust those insecurities
Free Download - 'Different Paths To Parenthood' Booklet By Children Book Authors Sensitive Matters
The team at Sensitive Matters have put together a helpful booklet full of hints and tips for people embarking on a donor or adoption journey. Collated comments and experience from a range of parents and professionals create a document that is both informative and insightful.
Donor Conception Network
DCN is a UK based charity network that supports donor conceived people and families with donor conceived children. The DCN provide a range of resources for parents including story books, courses and downloadable information.
Finding DNA Relatives Guide
A comprehensive guide produced by Donor Conceived Register (UK) member Freddie Howell into what DNA is, and how you can begin to make sense of any results you may have. Whilst this document was primarily produced for donor conceived people, it’s contents are also applicable to anyone seeking to gain more insight into what DNA testing involves and how to analyse any results.
For…
Professionals
Basic Principles for Understanding the Needs and Perspectives of Donor Conceived People
This document has been produced by New Zealand based advocacy group, Donor Conceived Aotearoa. The ‘Basic Principles for Understanding the Needs and Perpectives of Donor Conceived Individuals’ is a research supported resource aimed at informing parents and professionals.
The 'Curious Connections' Project - Being an egg or sperm donor
The ‘Curious Connections’ project is the first major study of egg and sperm donors since the move towards identity-release donation in UK clinics. Conducted by The University of Manchester (UK) this research project provides a real insight into donor conception from the perspective of the donor, with a variety of short videos and leaflets demonstrating their findings.
For…
Donor Conceived People
Donor Conception Network
DCN is a UK based charity network that supports donor conceived people and families with donor conceived children. They run a variety of online sessions and workshops, offer books and resources, and answer many questions that DCP have.
Donor Conceived Community
DCC provides peer support groups and resources for donor conceived people. They run a variety of groups and educational sessions on DNA discoveries and donor conception topics, with a library of resources and book recommendations.
Donor Conceived Register
Originally set up to help match donor conceived people in the UK with donors from pre 1991 births, the register has now expanded to help more individuals. Services include counselling for donor conceived adults, information and resources.
Finding DNA Relatives Guide
A comprehensive guide produced by Donor Conceived Register (UK) member Freddie Howell into what DNA is, and how you can begin to make sense of any results you may have. Whilst this document was primarily produced for donor conceived people, it’s contents are also applicable to anyone seeking to gain more insight into what DNA testing involves and how to analyse any results.
A guide for people who have LGBTQ+ parents and were born via Donor Conception and/or Surrogacy
A comprehensive guide updated in 2023 by COLAGE – A US based organisation supporting young people being raised by one or more LGBTQ+ parents. Written from the perspective of the donor conceived person, this resource also has a lot to offer parents from all types of families.
For…
Donors
The 'Curious Connections' Project - Being an egg or sperm donor
The ‘Curious Connections’ project is the first major study of egg and sperm donors since the move towards identity-release donation in UK clinics. Conducted by The University of Manchester (UK) this research project provides a real insight into donor conception from the perspective of the donor, with a variety of short videos and leaflets demonstrating their findings.
Seed Trust - Information and support for donors
The Sperm, Egg and Embryo Donation (SEED) Trust offers advice, support and information to prospective donors, intended parents and surrogates.
They have a wealth of free and impartial information about becoming a donor, FAQs, stories and experiences from other donors, and useful links.
Free DCN leaflet on known donation: ‘Closer Connections - When the egg, sperm or embryo donor is someone you know'
Produced by UK based non profit the Donor Conception Network, this is a thorough guide designed to assist anyone who is considering using a ‘known’ donor.
Free download
The ‘Nugget’ Series Recharged
The helpful toolbox of tips, advice and resources for parents of donor conceived children. This guide will provide you with:
• Real life examples of how to talk to your children about their conception story
• Practical tips that you can implement today
• Tools to build your confidence and bust those insecurities
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