01244 390 938
01244 390 938
Independent Agency Decision Maker Fostering Service
Location: Remote/Home
This role is accountable to The Board of Trustee’s, Director of Adoption and Fostering and CEO.
Closing date: 31st July 2026
Interview date: TBC
We are looking for an experienced independent Agency Decision Maker for our fostering service who will ensure that applications and reviews for continued approval of foster parents are robust and meet fostering regulations and standards; and also to provide quality assurance and feedback and advice to the agency to ensure our continued improvement. This role is on a zero hours contract basis.
Foster Care Matters is a fostering agency with a therapeutic emphasis that is established as part of the Adoption Matters family. We assess, train, approve and support foster families and the children placed with them in conjunction with our Centre for Fostering and Adoption Support (CFAS).
About us
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.
For more information on the management team and our Board of Trustees, click here.
What we’re looking for…
Main duties
Pay and Work Allocation
The rate of pay will be £51.00 per hour. If the work requires face-to-face meetings mileage is paid at 45p/mile.
Experience and qualifications
Professional qualification in social work is essential with Management qualification as a desirable. This post requires Social Work England registration. Three years post qualification experience with Childcare / Fostering management essential. Experience in both the voluntary and statutory sectors is desirable.
Knowledge
Sound knowledge of child and adolescent development and understanding of family dynamics. Knowledge of fostering and childcare legislation. To have an understanding of the Agency responsibilities with regard to the recruitment, assessment and continued approval of Foster Parents. Understanding of the role of Fostering Panel and how it operates. Understanding the role of ADM and the decision options open to them – and grounds for those decisions. Understanding of the needs of cared for children. Understanding of the process of managing foster carer allegations and standards of care concerns.
Ability
To be able to read and interpret Form F’s and panel minutes. To be able to question and challenge agency staff, as appropriate, regarding an assessment and/or reviews of foster parents. To be able to make decisions based on information, sound reasoning and judgement.
The authority and competence to provide agency decision making expertise in accordance with regulations and the policies and procedures of Foster Care Matters.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement
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.
Our commitments…
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.
What’s next? It’s easy!
Follow the instructions below to apply – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to apply
Please download the application form and complete it before returning it alongside a detailed CV outlining your career history and work by email to recruitment@adoptionmatters.org.uk. Please also return our Equality and Diversity Monitoring Form.
Applications are reviewed throughout the advertising period, and we reserve the right to close this advert early depending on recruitment needs.
Alternatively you can apply via post:
FAO HR Department
Adoption Matters
14 Liverpool Road
Chester, CH2 1AE
If you require further information, please contact the HR team on 01244 390 938.
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.
Please refer to our Safeguarding Policy available here
Please note that we can only contact candidates selected for interview and we are unable to provide feedback on individual applications.
