Matching Panel

3 replies

Sillyshell · 07/09/2017 13:16

We have finally been given a date for the matching panel after what seems like forever for a sibling pair and I am now terrified!

Can I ask of your experiences of what happened etc and I'm also scared that they are going to say no :( I would assume that to get this far it's not very likely but I guess it is a possibility

TIA

OP posts:

TripleB32 · 07/09/2017 14:08

We ended up having 2 matching panels as the first one was deferred. It was down to a lack of paperwork on the LAs part but it was devastating nonetheless. We had to wait another 3 months before the second one. But we couldn't have changed that outcome. We travelled for 3 hours to get there (on DHs birthday no less!) and didn't even make it in the room to see the panel!
The second one was much better and we got a unanimous yes for our 3 :)
Make sure to do your homework! Di-sect those CPRs down to the tiniest detail. Have answers and suggestions for every possible question of 'how will you parent two children with additional needs'; 'how will you ensure that you get 121 time with each of them'; 'how will you look after yourself'.
If the children have specific needs identified already then make sure you have ways of managing this well thought out. The reality will be hugely different ;) but it's good to have shown that you have really thought about these children and what they need to form good attachments to you.
Really make sure that you have thought about what your local area has to offer. Schools, nurseries etc - and what they have in place for your children if needed.

Be yourself, let the love that has undoubtedly already grown for your children show......and good luck!
x

Jellycatspyjamas · 07/09/2017 15:14

Ours was very straightforward, we were asked about why we were drawn to these children out of the profiles we had seen, and how we might meet their individual needs. To be honest, it was a very affirming process with our SW, the children's SW and the team manager talking about why they felt we were a good match for our 2. We were in for about 15 minutes and we're told it was one of the most positive discussions they've had and came with a strong unanimous decision. By that point we felt pretty relaxed because of the had any doubts we wouldn't have been at panel in the first place so while not exactly a forgon conclusion, it felt less stressful than our approval panel.

Interestingly enough the same people sit on the children's permanence panel and knew the kids. I was so struck by how delighted they were to have a good match for our children and how much they expressed their knowledge of and care for our DC.

donquixotedelamancha · 07/09/2017 17:08

Panel is by far the nicest bit of the hoop jumping process. There were a number of problems (meaning the SW got a bit roasted) at one of ours; but the panel members are always really nice- because of who is likely to choose to do this stuff.

It is worth dissecting the CPRs- but mainly for you. I've never heard of an adopter getting a real grilling.

If you want something to fret over- get your SW to double check all the paperwork is sorted by the kids SW. The vast likelihood is, however, that its a done deal- congratulations.

Flip