Current UK context: the Human Fertilisation & Embriology Authority (HFEA) Register opens in August 2023 for Donor Conception offspring reaching 18 who want identifying information about their donors and may wish to make contact; this change may perturb families who have not been open. Donors & their families may want to consider the ramifications of this, and those who donated anonymously may wish to explore re-registering as identifiable. Known or ‘online’ donors have increased, and this can lead to unexpected complexities. Over-the-counter DNA tests are leading to the discovery of donor issues and unknown relatives. Parental Order applications have increased clarifying that surrogacy is being used more.

There are clear indications that support and therapeutic interventions are needed when families are built through donor conception [eggs, sperm and/or both], and/or surrogacy. For example: late revelations can impact profoundly on relationships. Donor Offspring have described the powerful ramifications on both self and family. The support available is very limited although in the UK we have a clinic regulator* and laws which confer parentage and Parental Responsibility to those undergoing treatment. The support on offer from the HFEA* is specific and limited, and services provided by the Donor Conception Network [a national charity] are not always sufficient. Standard mental health services are not attuned to this group and are rarely appropriate places to seek assistance. International issues where people have treatment abroad can create various complexities. Furthermore, multifaceted situations reach Family Courts requiring Expert reports to help Judges make decisions in the Best Interests of children.

Dr Sharon Pettle has worked in this area for more than 20 years: as a clinical Psychologist and psychotherapist, academic researcher, writer and innovator. She developed groups for Donor Conception children within a systemic framework [the only ones in the world!] and has offered therapeutic consultations and interventions to individuals, couples and families across the lifespan. She will be leading the Centre for Modern Families opening in London in 2023 where the therapeutic needs of Donor Conception families, donors and their families, and surrogates and their families will be addressed. The Centre will also have a training function for professionals wanting to develop skills in this area. This presentation will utilize case examples of clinical work and Expert Witness reports to illustrate dilemmas and ethical questions which participants will be invited to consider.