Skip to content
HomeEvents Workshop: Telling & ...

Heterosexual couple

In person

Members and non-members

Parent

TT

Workshop

Workshop: Telling & Talking (IN PERSON, mum-and-dad families)

This workshop is for parents of donor-conceived children aged 0-7 years. Not sure how to begin a conversation with your child about their donor conception ...

14 Nov 09:30-17:00

Book now

This workshop is for parents of donor-conceived children aged 0-7 years.

Not sure how to begin a conversation with your child about their donor conception story? Maybe you’re unsure about whether telling is the right thing to do? Or perhaps you’re concerned about who to tell and not tell in your life? Our Telling & Talking workshop is designed specifically with your needs and questions in mind. It provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore the benefits of telling and how to get started.

This workshop is equally appropriate whether you had treatment in the UK or abroad, with a known, identifiable or anonymous donor or if your treatment involved surrogacy. You may be wondering how to start talking to your child about their donor-conceived origins, or you may have already begun this process and would like to explore what may come up in the future.

The workshop will be delivered in Central London (Angel). You will receive full details a month before the workshop. Lunch & refreshments are included in the cost of the workshop.

Unfortunately, we are unable to have babies or children around during these workshops. You will need to ensure you have alternative child-care arranged for your child(ren) for the duration of the course, as it is a full and intensive programme. Please contact Jo at events@dcnetwork.org if you wish to discuss this further.

Please note this is a 1 day in person workshop (Saturday)

Book now

More upcoming events

Member event

Online

Apr

29

Solo parents - 2026 babies born or expected this year

This is a DCN chat for solo mums or solo dads with babies born or expected in 2024 or 2025. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This event will be facilitated by solo mum to two and DCN volunteer, Siska. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. This is not a professionally led or educational event. If you find that you need further more professional support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Members and non-members

Online

May

2

Workshop: Telling & Talking (solo mum and two-mum families)

** FULLY BOOKED ** This workshop is for parents of donor-conceived children aged 0-7 years. Not sure how to begin a conversation with your child about their donor conception story? Maybe you’re unsure about whether telling is the right thing to do? Or perhaps you’re concerned about who to tell and not tell in your life? Our Telling & Talking workshop is designed specifically with your needs and questions in mind. It provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore the benefits of telling and how to get started. This workshop is equally appropriate whether you had treatment in the UK or abroad, with a known, identifiable or anonymous donor or if your treatment involved surrogacy. You may be wondering how to start talking to your child about their donor-conceived origins, or you may have already begun this process and would like to explore what may come up in the future. As a single or lesbian woman, we recognise that your experiences are different from the time your pregnancy becomes public knowledge, and that attending our workshop even before your baby is born might be helpful for you. All of our single women and lesbian couples’ workshops have a small number of places for pregnant women.
Book now

Member event

Online

May

7

Couples with babies born or expected 2026

This is a DCN chat for couples, heterosexual or same-sex, who are new parents to babies born in 2026. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. The space will be open for you to connect with others and will be facilitated by Ian, who together with his wife, has one child concieved through egg donation who is 3 years old. Join us for a friendly opportunity to meet others at the same stage as you, for a place to grow friendships for you and your family. If you find that you need further more professional support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Members and non-members

Online

May

8

Making It Real 2026

Workshop for professionals working with donor conception families and prospective parents. Do you work with donor conception families or with patients using donor eggs, sperm or embryos? Do you want to feel confident supporting them, not just at the point you see them, but in a way that truly considers the lifelong journey they’re on? Would you like to better understand the bigger picture and what life is really like for donor conception families? Our ‘Making it Real’ workshop is specially designed for you, to enhance your knowledge and understanding of this route to parenthood and help you offer families the support they need. This session will help you understand the arc of experiences that donor conception families may move through, including the various points at which they may need information, support or guidance. “𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘢𝘱𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘰𝘳 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.” 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝘁𝗼: * **Shape your policy:** Attendance at this workshop will inform your policy and practice, helping you support your clients and patients in making decisions that are right for their future. * **Deepen understanding:** This workshop will deepen your own understanding of the ways in which creating a child using eggs, sperm or embryos from a third party, including with surrogacy, is different from standard fertility treatments. * **Support prospective parents:** We look at how best to help prospective parents consider from the outset the lifetime implications for the child and the family * **Support families:** We look at how to support families as children grow up and circumstances, as well as interest levels, may change. * **Connect with others in the field:** The workshop also provides an opportunity to meet and network with the other attendees, all of whom will be professionals in a related field, as well as with DC Network’s team. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀 * Friday 8 May 2026 * 9:15am – 4:45pm BST * Zoom – Online * £139 or early bird price £109 if booked before 1 March * [Programme](https://dcnetwork.org/app/uploads/2025/11/Making-it-Real-2026-Programme-MIR.pdf) This workshop will deepen your own understanding of the ways in which creating a child using eggs, sperm or embryos from a third party, including with surrogacy, is different from standard fertility treatments. We look at how to help prospective parents consider the lifetime implications of this route for the child and the family, plus how to support families as children grow up and circumstances (and interest levels) change. 𝗙𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱: * Hear the experiences of parents and donor conceived adults – how do these families fare in the long term? * Consider the place of the donor, the donor’s family and any genetic siblings or half-siblings in donor conception families (especially important post-2023). * Learn how DNA testing is revolutionising the making of genetic connections and the implications for families. * Listen to DC Network’s long view of life for donor conception families * Feel better supported in your role in the fast changing world of donor conception. 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱: * The support needed by donor conception families before, during and after treatment, especially as choices are being made about clinics and countries. * The popularity of genetic testing companies and the impact of the removal of anonymity in the UK – what’s changed now that the donor register has opened? * The services and resources offered by DC Network – and how these complement and build on information provided and counselling undertaken in clinics and elsewhere * The social and emotional issues of using donated gametes * The implications of the use of DNA and genetic testing websites * The experiences of patients and clients in greater depth. 𝗔𝗹𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱? Please note that the content of this workshop will be very similar to those run in previous years. If you attended before, you are welcome to attend the day again or you may like to take this opportunity to recommend it to colleagues so they can experience it for themselves. Attendance at this workshop will inform your policy and practice in helping you support your clients and patients in making decisions that are right for their future. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 020 7278 2608 or at enquiries@dcnetwork.org.
Book now

Member event

Online

May

10

Couples (including separated couples) with children ages 4-7

You are invited to join us for a conversation for members who are parents to children aged 4-7 years old. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Joumana, mum through egg donation to two children. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, volunteers, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

May

13

Mixed families

You are invited to join us for a conversation for members who are either intending or have ‘mixed’ families – our term for those with a naturally conceived child (or adopted) and a donor conceived child, to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Laura, mum to two – the oldest naturally conceived and the youngest conceive through egg donation. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, volunteers, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

May

19

Solo mums with children conceived through double or embryo donation

This is a DCN chat for solo mums through double or embryo donation- with children of all ages. Join this chat if you are pregnant/have children through double or embryo donation. If you are a thinker/tryer there is a DCN chat available for that stage. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This chat will be facilitated by Lucia, solo mum to twins through embryo donation. All our Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event.
Book now

Member event

Online

May

20

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those undergoing treatment with egg donation

A space for members who are in the process of undertaking treatment with egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Anna. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

May

28

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those considering egg donation - Prospective parent

A space for members considering egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Alex. *There is a separate group running for those undertaking treatment already – this group is predominently for thinking through this route to parenthood. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

In person

May

31

Scotland: Meetup in Edinburgh

We are delighted to invite our Scottish members to a family meetup in The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Sunday 31 May at botanic gardens, Edinburgh 10:30-12:00 – Edinburgh botanic gardens. Meet at the Terrace cafe up the hill Sarah, local meetup coordinator, will look forward to welcoming you to this event. Members in all situations are very welcome. Whether you have children already or still considering, do come along to meet others in the Network!
Book now

Member event

In person

May

31

West Midlands meetup for all

The next DCN West Midlands meeting will be on Sunday 31st May, 1pm Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield B74 2YT Meet at Sutton Park Town Gate Visitor Centre at 1pm then we will find a picnic spot nearer the playground. https://maps.app.goo.gl/kXPmRj1bpkuoY2WV8?g_st=ac
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

1

‘Reflections’ - Parents of DC Adults

You are invited to join the group for parents of DC adults. This group will be facilitated by Jane, one of our longterm members who also works with DCN. We are inviting parents of those with children who are adults. We hope this chat can offer an attuned space to the discussions that may be more relevant to the context in which children were conceived 20+ years ago, in a different climate to that which is now prevalent, with regards to openness in particular. Join us for discussion and support from peers.
Book now

Members and non-members

Online

Jun

6

Workshop: Telling & Talking (solo mum and two-mum families)

This workshop is for parents of donor-conceived children aged 0-7 years. Not sure how to begin a conversation with your child about their donor conception story? Maybe you’re unsure about whether telling is the right thing to do? Or perhaps you’re concerned about who to tell and not tell in your life? Our Telling & Talking workshop is designed specifically with your needs and questions in mind. It provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore the benefits of telling and how to get started. This workshop is equally appropriate whether you had treatment in the UK or abroad, with a known, identifiable or anonymous donor or if your treatment involved surrogacy. You may be wondering how to start talking to your child about their donor-conceived origins, or you may have already begun this process and would like to explore what may come up in the future. As a single or lesbian woman, we recognise that your experiences are different from the time your pregnancy becomes public knowledge, and that attending our workshop even before your baby is born might be helpful for you. All of our single women and lesbian couples’ workshops have a small number of places for pregnant women.
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

10

Couples (including separated couples) with children ages 0-3

You are invited to join us for a conversation for members who are parents to small children aged 0-3 years old. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Rachel, who together with her husband, has two children through donor conception. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, volunteers, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

10

Half sibling discussion

This DCN Chat is aimed at discussing the pros and cons of taking steps to identify genetic siblings. We will offer a space to deliberate about the merits and pitfalls of this and what possible implications doing so/or not do so might have on you and your child. The chat will be facilitated by Adrienne, who is a solo mum with a child born in 2020. This forum is for discussing the topic, rather than a ‘how to’. ** Becuase of the nature of the conversation we ask that participants are particularly careful not to share identifying details of their donor.
Book now

Members and non-members

Online

Jun

13

Workshop: Continuing the Conversation

Workshop for parents of donor conceived children aged **10-20 years.** Do you find the idea of your child connecting with their donor or half-siblings a daunting prospect? Perhaps you’re unsure how to raise the topic with them, or you’d value a safe space to explore what it might mean if – or when – they choose to make contact? Our new Continuing the Conversation workshop offers just that: a supportive space to think about the future, consider the possible implications, and build confidence in navigating these conversations with your child. It is suitable regardless of whether you used an anonymous, ID release or known donor, although the conversations might be different, of course. **At this event, you will:** * Think about the future and what might unfold for you and your child if and when they want to make contact with genetic connections * Build confidence in having conversations about the donor and genetic relatives. **The workshop will enable you to:** * Consider the options available to you and your child – gain an understanding of the options available for accessing information about your donor and your child’s half siblings, whether you had treatment in the UK or overseas * Share common hopes and fears that parents experience when their child talks about the donor * Learn about how and when you might raise the topic with your child * Think through what questions your child might have and what support they might need * Connect with other parents of donor conceived children * Be ready for the wide range of feelings your child might have, how they might differ from your own, and how they might change over time. * Gain knowledge and confidence to support you and your child in decision making. **Who is it for?** This workshop is specially designed for parents of donor conceived children aged 10-20 years who have already told their child about being donor conceived. It is suitable for all family types and is equally appropriate whether your treatment took place in the UK or abroad. **Highlights include:** * Small group discussions with others to discuss feelings and experiences * Hear donor conceived people talking about feelings towards genetic connections * Session with practical tips on starting and continuing the conversation with your child * Hosted by three extremely experienced facilitators who are parents of donor conceived people * Session on research findings on donor conceived people connecting with genetic relatives * Brief overview of ways to find information for future self-investigation. **What the workshop won’t do:** * Help you tell for the first time: This workshop is designed for parents who have already told their child about their origins and we therefore do not cover telling your child for the first time. If you have not yet begun that initial conversation, our Telling & Talking pages have information you may find helpful to get started.  * Provide detailed information on ways to find genetic relatives: we will tell you the essentials of what is possible but this workshop is not a how-to guide on connecting with genetic relatives. * Tell you *why* you should look for genetic connections: We are not offering this programme to encourage you to connect with the donor – that is always a decision for you and your family. Rather, we want to help you think about the implications for your child and for yourself if and when they seek to make contact. Some quotes from attendees: *”It was the right approach and level of info. Informal, with structure – not stuffy!”* *”It was really good to be able to take some space to listen to views, hear information and be prodded to think about things that inevitably just become part of the background of wider family life.”* This workshop has been made possible by funding from the European Sperm Bank and the Young Adults Study and we are enormously grateful for their support. We also allocated the money we raised from our 2025 Appeal towards this project, including the match funding from the London Sperm Bank. Thanks go to all our donors and members for contributing and enabling us to support our community in continuing important family conversations.
Book now

Member event

In person

Jun

13

Bromley DCN meetup

Join the Bromley group for its next meetup on: Saturday 13 June 3-5pm Kelsey Park, Beckenham BR3 6QH
Book now

Member event

In person

Jun

14

West London meetup

Come along to join the next meetup for members in West London on Sunday 12th April at The Eagle, 215 askew road, W12 9AZ. Members in all family circumstances are warmly welcome as well thinkers & triers! Local group coordinator, Chloe, solo mom of 2 year old Lily, will be there to welcome you and the families will have a chance to meet.
Book now

Member event

In person

Jun

14

Berkshire- Solo mums - Windsor way group

Windsor solo mum group are inviting solo mums (and mums-to-be) from across the county, to join their next events. 8 Mar 2026 11-2pm – South Hill Park Bracknell 14 Jun 2026 – California Park Wokingham 13 Sep 2026 – TBC 29 Nov 2026 – TBC Times and locations if not listed are tbc but usually South Hill Park Bracknell, California Park Wokingham, Lammas Park Staines or Windsor Great Park, with a hall in the winter (Windsor usually). Anyone free to email me for further info at dcnwindsorway@gmail.com.
Book now

Member event

In person

Jun

14

Kent - Summer picnic

Join the Kent group for their next in person meetup at Mote park. Hope to see you there – all welcome, at any stage!!! Further details to be added closer to date.
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

16

Solo mums with children conceived through double or embryo donation

This is a DCN chat for solo mums through double or embryo donation- with children of all ages. Join this chat if you are pregnant/have children through double or embryo donation. If you are a thinker/tryer there is a DCN chat available for that stage. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This chat will be facilitated by Lucia, solo mum to twins through embryo donation. All our Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event.
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

17

Solo parents to children aged 5 and under

This is a DCN chat for solo mums and dads who have children ages 5 and under. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Adrienne, solo mum to a child born 2017. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further more professional support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

24

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those undergoing treatment with egg donation

A space for members who are in the process of undertaking treatment with egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Anna. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Jun

25

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those considering egg donation - Prospective parent

A space for members considering egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Alex. *There is a separate group running for those undertaking treatment already – this group is predominently for thinking through this route to parenthood. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

In person

Jun

26

South coast / Solent Solos- Solo parents group

This group is for solo parents in the South coast area of the UK (including Dorset, Hampshire, West Sussex). Join the Solent Solos to go camping! Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June – Camping at Lepe Beach Campsite
Book now

Member event

In person

Jul

3

Yorkshire - Camping trip

Invitation from the event organiser: The Yorkshire branch of the DCN are coming together for a camping w/e for 2 nights – on Friday 3nd July, at Masons Campsite, Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire Dales. There are many regular attenders as we’ve been coming together for our camping w/e for many years now but we really welcome new members. It’s a lovely campsite by the river with lots of space so bikes, swimming togs and wetsuits all welcome. Families with children young and older are warmly invited.
Book now

Member event

Online

Jul

8

Mixed families

You are invited to join us for a conversation for members who are either intending or have ‘mixed’ families – our term for those with a naturally conceived child (or adopted) and a donor conceived child, to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Laura, mum to two – the oldest naturally conceived and the youngest conceive through egg donation. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, volunteers, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

In person

Jul

12

North West England - Solo mums' group meetup

The North West solo mums’ group is up and running again and looking forward to welcoming members from across the region. Solo mums or mums-to-be are invited to all activities Jenny and Kate will be there to welcome you to join their in person meetups for support and community. The meet ups planned for 2026: 19th April- Walton Hall gardens Warrington or Wigan Haigh hall 12th July – Calderstones park/Warrington 11th October – Knutsford/Chester/Delemere Exact location will be decided on approximately 4 weeks before the event, when they have an idea of who is coming and ensuring sufficient numbners to run meetups.
Book now

Member event

In person

Jul

14

London: Men Only Get-Together

Calling all men in the Network… Come and join our get-together for *men only*: an opportunity to meet others in the Network and discuss issues which are of particular relevance to you, relating to donor conception and becoming a family through this route. One of DCN’s lovely volunteers, Chris, will be hosting the event and waiting to welcome you and make sure its a great evening. On this occassion, we are welcoming men at all stages, in all family circumstances; those who are intended parents, in treatment, expecting or parents, through sperm, egg or double/embryo donation. Come and chat and share as little or as much as you feel comfortable, in a room of people who understand.
Book now

Member event

Online

Jul

21

Solo mums with children conceived through double or embryo donation

This is a DCN chat for solo mums through double or embryo donation- with children of all ages. Join this chat if you are pregnant/have children through double or embryo donation. If you are a thinker/tryer there is a DCN chat available for that stage. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This chat will be facilitated by Lucia, solo mum to twins through embryo donation. All our Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event.
Book now

Member event

Online

Jul

22

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those undergoing treatment with egg donation

A space for members who are in the process of undertaking treatment with egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Anna. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Jul

23

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those considering egg donation - Prospective parent

A space for members considering egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Alex. *There is a separate group running for those undertaking treatment already – this group is predominently for thinking through this route to parenthood. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Aug

5

Men considering or going through treatment with sperm donation, or dads through this route

This DCN chat is for men only – in heterosexual couples, considering, undertaking treatment or dads through sperm donation. This Chat will be facilitated by Chris, dad to two children, conceived with sperm donation. DCN Chats offer a space for members to come together to talk about shared issues. This is a peer support online get-together. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a friendly non-judgemental space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Aug

12

Half sibling discussion

This DCN Chat is aimed at discussing the pros and cons of taking steps to identify genetic siblings. We will offer a space to deliberate about the merits and pitfalls of this and what possible implications doing so/or not do so might have on you and your child. The chat will be facilitated by Adrienne, who is a solo mum with a child born in 2020. This forum is for discussing the topic, rather than a ‘how to’. ** Becuase of the nature of the conversation we ask that participants are particularly careful not to share identifying details of their donor.
Book now

Member event

Online

Aug

18

Solo mums with children conceived through double or embryo donation

This is a DCN chat for solo mums through double or embryo donation- with children of all ages. Join this chat if you are pregnant/have children through double or embryo donation. If you are a thinker/tryer there is a DCN chat available for that stage. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This chat will be facilitated by Lucia, solo mum to twins through embryo donation. All our Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event.
Book now

Member event

Online

Aug

19

Solo parents to children aged 5 and under

This is a DCN chat for solo mums and dads who have children ages 5 and under. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Adrienne, solo mum to a child born 2017. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further more professional support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Aug

26

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those undergoing treatment with egg donation

A space for members who are in the process of undertaking treatment with egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Anna. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Aug

27

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those considering egg donation - Prospective parent

A space for members considering egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Alex. *There is a separate group running for those undertaking treatment already – this group is predominently for thinking through this route to parenthood. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Sep

9

Mixed families

You are invited to join us for a conversation for members who are either intending or have ‘mixed’ families – our term for those with a naturally conceived child (or adopted) and a donor conceived child, to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Laura, mum to two – the oldest naturally conceived and the youngest conceive through egg donation. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, volunteers, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please don’t hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Sep

15

Solo mums with children conceived through double or embryo donation

This is a DCN chat for solo mums through double or embryo donation- with children of all ages. Join this chat if you are pregnant/have children through double or embryo donation. If you are a thinker/tryer there is a DCN chat available for that stage. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This chat will be facilitated by Lucia, solo mum to twins through embryo donation. All our Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event.
Book now

Member event

Online

Sep

23

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those undergoing treatment with egg donation

A space for members who are in the process of undertaking treatment with egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Anna. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

Online

Sep

24

Heterosexual couples -Chat for those considering egg donation - Prospective parent

A space for members considering egg donation, to come together to talk about shared issues. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This DCN Chat will be hosted by Alex. *There is a separate group running for those undertaking treatment already – this group is predominently for thinking through this route to parenthood. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a supportive space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Members and non-members

Online

Sep

26

Workshop: Telling & Talking (mum-and-dad families)

This workshop is for parents of donor-conceived children aged 0-7 years. Not sure how to begin a conversation with your child about their donor conception story? Maybe you’re unsure about whether telling is the right thing to do? Or perhaps you’re concerned about who to tell and not tell in your life? Our Telling & Talking workshop is designed specifically with your needs and questions in mind. It provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore the benefits of telling and how to get started. This workshop is equally appropriate whether you had treatment in the UK or abroad, with a known, identifiable or anonymous donor or if your treatment involved surrogacy. You may be wondering how to start talking to your child about their donor-conceived origins, or you may have already begun this process and would like to explore what may come up in the future.
Book now

Member event

Online

Oct

7

Men considering or going through treatment with sperm donation, or dads through this route

This DCN chat is for men only – in heterosexual couples, considering, undertaking treatment or dads through sperm donation. This Chat will be facilitated by Chris, dad to two children, conceived with sperm donation. DCN Chats offer a space for members to come together to talk about shared issues. This is a peer support online get-together. All our DCN Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event. Join us for a friendly non-judgemental space to talk to others in similar situations. If you find that you need further support, please dont hesitate to contact the DC Network office on enquiries@dcnetwork.org
Book now

Member event

In person

Oct

11

North West England - Solo mums' group meetup

The North West solo mums’ group is up and running again and looking forward to welcoming members from across the region. Solo mums or mums-to-be are invited to all activities Jenny and Kate will be there to welcome you to join their in person meetups for support and community. The meet ups planned for 2026: 19th April- Walton Hall gardens Warrington or Wigan Haigh hall 12th July – Calderstones park/Warrington 11th October – Knutsford/Chester/Delemere Exact location will be decided on approximately 4 weeks before the event, when they have an idea of who is coming and ensuring sufficient numbners to run meetups.
Book now

Member event

Online

Oct

14

Half sibling discussion

This DCN Chat is aimed at discussing the pros and cons of taking steps to identify genetic siblings. We will offer a space to deliberate about the merits and pitfalls of this and what possible implications doing so/or not do so might have on you and your child. The chat will be facilitated by Adrienne, who is a solo mum with a child born in 2020. This forum is for discussing the topic, rather than a ‘how to’. ** Becuase of the nature of the conversation we ask that participants are particularly careful not to share identifying details of their donor.
Book now

Members and non-members

Online

Oct

17

Workshop: Telling & Talking (solo mum and two-mum families)

This workshop is for parents of donor-conceived children aged 0-7 years. Not sure how to begin a conversation with your child about their donor conception story? Maybe you’re unsure about whether telling is the right thing to do? Or perhaps you’re concerned about who to tell and not tell in your life? Our Telling & Talking workshop is designed specifically with your needs and questions in mind. It provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore the benefits of telling and how to get started. This workshop is equally appropriate whether you had treatment in the UK or abroad, with a known, identifiable or anonymous donor or if your treatment involved surrogacy. You may be wondering how to start talking to your child about their donor-conceived origins, or you may have already begun this process and would like to explore what may come up in the future. As a single or lesbian woman, we recognise that your experiences are different from the time your pregnancy becomes public knowledge, and that attending our workshop even before your baby is born might be helpful for you. All of our single women and lesbian couples’ workshops have a small number of places for pregnant women.
Book now

Member event

Online

Oct

20

Solo mums with children conceived through double or embryo donation

This is a DCN chat for solo mums through double or embryo donation- with children of all ages. Join this chat if you are pregnant/have children through double or embryo donation. If you are a thinker/tryer there is a DCN chat available for that stage. DCN Chat is a peer support online get-together. This chat will be facilitated by Lucia, solo mum to twins through embryo donation. All our Chat facilitators are members themselves, and hosting the chat as individuals. This is not a professionally led or educational event.
Book now

Start your journey today

We’ve been helping donor conception families for 30 years. Join us to get specialist support and information, and to find a community of families in a similar situation.

Join us
Donor Conception Network
Powered by  GDPR Cookie Compliance
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.