Independent Adoption Panel Chair – Remote, North West & Yorkshire

Independent Adoption Panel Chair – Remote, North West & Yorkshire

We are looking for an Adoption Panel Chair who can lead and help us to continuously develop our Adoption Panel for our Adoption service,
on a self-employed basis.

Our Adoption Panels currently take place approximately twice a month on a Tuesday and are mainly virtual, although there may be some face to face panels.

Adoption Matters is a children’s charity and one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies in the UK. We recruit, train and support individuals, couples and families looking to adopt and offer ongoing support and training. We also offer a support service for adopted adults and birth families, and a specialised therapy service.

In 2024, we launched our not‑for‑profit fostering agency, Foster Care Matters. As a non‑profit provider, the service is committed to reinvesting resources to deliver high‑quality support and ongoing training for foster parents. More recently in 2026, we acquired 1st Affinity Fostering Service in Wrexham, securing a not‑for‑profit future for the agency in Wales.

Make a difference and play a pivotal role in ensuring the charity delivers meaningful outcomes.

• Experience, either professionally or personally or both, of the placement of children in adoptive and foster families and of children being cared away from their birth family.
• Experience of chairing complex meetings.

• An appreciation of the effect of separation and loss on children.
• An awareness of the richness of different kinds of families and their potential for meeting children’s needs.
• An understanding of the purpose and function of the panel and of the agency which the panel is serving.
• An understanding of the adoption process and practice and of the legislative framework for the work of the panel, or the capacity to develop this knowledge quickly.

The authority and competence to chair a panel ensuring that the business is covered and that the panel operates in accordance with regulations and the policies and procedures of the agency.

The rate will be £300 for each virtual panel inclusive of attendance to panel, prerequisite and post panel meeting work. If the panel is face‑to‑face the rate will be £350 plus mileage at 45p/mile. Additional duties will be paid at £30 per hour.

At Adoption Matters, we are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our ambition is to create a culture that embraces diversity, promotes equality, and ensures inclusion for all.

• Equality – We strive to provide equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of background, identity, or personal circumstances. We are dedicated to eliminating discrimination and bias in all forms.
• Diversity – We celebrate the diverse perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our organisation. We believe diversity drives innovation and strengthens our community.
• Inclusion – We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and supported. We actively work to remove barriers and ensure all voices are heard and valued.

We are open to discussions about any adjustments or flexible arrangements you may need at any stage of the process. If you join us, we will support you to reach your full potential. The only aspect we assess in your application is how you have demonstrated your ability to meet the essential requirements of the role.

Adoption Matters is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Our recruitment process includes DBS checks and other relevant pre‑employment checks, including the right to work in the UK. Anyone joining the Adoption Matters team is subject to safer recruitment checks.