A report by Cardiff University has found that 27% of birth mothers and 19% of birth fathers of children placed for adoption were themselves in state care. The research also found that care-leaver birth mothers were more likely than their non-care-leaver counterparts to have diagnosed mental health problems, and were less likely to appeal the adoption plan. The report drew on data from the Wales Adoption Study. The researchers have said there is an urgent need to look at how children and young people in care are prepared for being parents, and supported as parents.