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- Tasks: Join our adoption panels to review applications and support prospective adopters.
- Company: Adoption Matters is a leading children's charity and voluntary adoption agency in the UK.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, network with professionals, and claim travel expenses.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while being part of an outstanding team.
- Qualifications: Open to all community members; previous adopters must wait 12 months post-adoption.
- Other info: This is a volunteer role, offering remote and in-person panel options.
Adoption Matters is a registered children's charity and one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) in the UK. We recruit, train, and support individuals and families as adopters and offer them ongoing support and training for as long as they need it. We also provide support to birth families and adopted adults. Ofsted has rated us 'Outstanding' since 2008, making us the ONLY adoption service in the North of England rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted 5 times in a row.
Adoption Matters adoption panels are held regularly, both in person and remotely online via Teams. The panel reviews every adoption application and makes a recommendation to our Agency Decision Maker regarding the applicant's suitability to adopt. This is part of the legal process to become an approved adopter.
At Adoption Matters, we want to ensure that our adoption panels continue to be warm, friendly, and approachable. We know how much prospective adopters appreciate the sense of their applications being considered by people similar to themselves. We also recognize that we place children with a wide range of needs from a variety of backgrounds. As such, we encourage expressions of interest from all areas of the community.
Under adoption regulations, people who have adopted need to wait at least 12 months after the making of any adoption order before they can join a panel. Please be advised that our panel members are volunteers; while travel expenses can be claimed, it is an unpaid role.
If you would like to explore joining one of our panels further, please get in touch with our Service Managers:
- Paul Dolan at Paul.dolan@adoptionmatters.org for our panels held in Blackburn and Durham
- Jacqui Shore at Jacqui.shore@adoptionmatters.org for our panels held in Chester
More about us: Adoption Matters is a children's charity and one of the largest Voluntary Adoption Agencies in the UK. Rated Ofsted 'Outstanding' since 2008.
Volunteer Adoption Panel Members employer: Adoption Matters
Contact Detail:
Adoption Matters Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Adoption Panel Members
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Adoption Matters' mission and values. Understanding their commitment to supporting adopters and children will help you align your passion and experiences with their goals during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former panel members if possible. They can provide insights into the role and share their experiences, which can be invaluable when preparing for any informal conversations or interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your own experiences with adoption or fostering, if applicable. Sharing personal stories can demonstrate your empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by adopters and children.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out directly to the Service Managers mentioned in the job description. Expressing your interest and asking questions can show your enthusiasm and commitment to the role, making a positive impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Adoption Panel Members
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Volunteer Adoption Panel Member. Familiarise yourself with the adoption process and the importance of the panel's role in reviewing applications.
Tailor Your Application: When writing your application, highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the values of Adoption Matters. Emphasise your ability to be warm, friendly, and approachable, as these qualities are essential for the role.
Express Your Motivation: In your application, clearly articulate why you want to join the adoption panel. Share your passion for supporting children and families, and how your background or experiences have prepared you for this volunteer role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Adoption Matters
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what being a Volunteer Adoption Panel Member entails. Familiarise yourself with the adoption process and the responsibilities of the panel, as this will help you articulate your motivations and suitability during the interview.
✨Show Empathy and Understanding
Adoption is a sensitive topic, so it's crucial to demonstrate empathy and understanding towards prospective adopters and children in need. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand more about the organisation's values and how they align with yours.
✨Be Yourself
Adoption Matters values warmth and approachability, so be authentic in your responses. Let your personality shine through, as they are looking for panel members who can create a welcoming environment for applicants.
