Childcare experience & volunteering
We believe that our children have the best opportunity to thrive with adoptive families who have been thoroughly prepared, trained and supported throughout their adoption assessment process.
Why do I need childcare experience?
We know that it is incredibly valuable for each adopter to gain recent and relevant childcare experience. This should ideally be with children from a range of backgrounds and abilities.
Childcare experience demonstrates your ability to meet a child’s needs. We encourage you to get as much experience with children as possible, within the age range that you are considering adopting, as this demonstrates an understanding of the cognitive and physical development a child of this age might have. One of the simplest ideas, is to ask friends and family if you can look after their children. Social workers are keen to see routine or overnight care for children, so you could suggest a weekly pick-up from school or babysitting while their parents are out of town for the weekend.
Should I seek volunteering experience with children with additional needs?
Caring for children with additional needs requires certain skills. Having experience in this can benefit your decision-making process. It can help you work out whether you could meet the needs of a child with additional needs. If so, this experience can demonstrate to the panel and family finders that you are the best carer for a child. Likewise, if you are able to spend time with children who may have experienced trauma or had a tough start in life, this will help you gain an understanding of their needs and difficulties.
How much childcare or volunteering should I complete?
You will need to have recent experience in caring for children or volunteering in a childcare environment for a minimum of six months. Some childcare/volunteering organisations may require a specific period of consistent attendance to ensure stability for the children they support. This will also enable the organisation to provide a reference on how you interact and form connections with children. Some organisations will require a DBS check. Please contact your local team for more information.
- Independent Visitor Scheme – Mentor and befriend young people in care. Flexible schedule.
- KEEN London – Weekend sports volunteering with children. No experience needed; training provided.
- African Youth Development Association (AYDA) – Support workshops and activities for young people with special educational needs.
- Chance UK – Mentor children at risk of exclusion; help build confidence and life skills.
- Beanstalk – Become a trained reading helper for children needing extra support.
- All Aboard Club – Volunteer at autism/ADHD-friendly activities designed by specialists.
- Babyzone Hubs – Help at community play sessions for families; great for adoption experience.
- Girlguiding & Scouts – Work with children of all ages in local groups.
- Action for Children – Independent visitor role to support a child in care.
- Neutral Ground – Help families reconnect at a child contact centre.
- Doorstep Library – Bring books and reading support to families with limited access.
- Children’s Centres – Assist with reading, play, or outings; support family health and learning.
- Sure Start Centres – Support family health, early learning, and childcare.
- Home-Start Croydon – Home visits to help families with young children; offer practical and emotional support.
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