Become an Adoption Matters Trustee and Make a Difference to Our Charity
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.
What we are looking for
We are seeking Trustees to join our purposeful and dedicated Board of Trustees and contribute to our organisation and the lives of children and families. We are looking for individuals who share our ambition and have the skills and ability to make a meaningful contribution.
This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of a children’s charity that transforms the lives of children who cannot live with their birth families. For many of the children we support—often older, in sibling groups, or with complex needs – adoption can be life-changing.
For further information, please refer to the Person Specification in the Trustee Recruitment Pack.
Term commitment
The term of appointment will be three years initially, with a review of performance for renewal for a further three years and again after this period, up to a maximum of nine years. In exceptional circumstances, the term may extend beyond this period.
Remuneration and expenses
This position is unremunerated; however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
Why become a Trustee?
Make an impact, gain experience, expand your network, and enhance your skills and knowledge. If you are passionate about what we do and believe you can add value to the current Board of Trustees, we would be very interested to hear from you.
What we offer in return
- Our values: Honesty, Empathy, Ambition, Respect, and Together — which we hope align with your own.
- The opportunity to make a difference, feel valued, and achieve the role satisfaction you’ve always wanted.
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.
Together, we can build a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive future.
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 Trustee Recruitment Pack and complete the application form.
- Adoption Matters Trustee Recruitment Pack
- Trustee Application Form 2026
Apply with:
- A detailed CV outlining your career history, responsibilities, and achievements
- A supporting statement (maximum two A4 pages) explaining your suitability for the role and how you meet the Trustee Person Specification
Please return your application and CV by email to:
Email: [email protected]
Applications are reviewed throughout the advertising period, and we reserve the right to close this advert early depending on recruitment needs.
You can also return your application by post:
Post:
FAO HR Department
Adoption Matters
14 Liverpool Road
Chester, CH2 1AE, United Kingdom
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.
