Front Door Guidance
This updated guidance note builds on the original front door script co-developed by Adoption UK and Adoption England. It reflects recommendations from a mystery shopping exercise carried out earlier in 2025 and has been refreshed to align with modern adoption practice. While every agency operates differently, the aim is to ensure that all prospective adopters receive a consistent, high-quality experience from the very first point of contact, helping to improve both recruitment and retention across the sector.
As part of National Adoption Week, Adoption England hosted a two-part webinar series for anyone considering adoption, exploring how children and families are linked and matched. The sessions were open to anyone thinking about adoption, at any stage of the journey, as well as professionals such as IROs, guardians, and children’s social workers.
The first session covered the stages of family finding, the needs of children waiting, and the different ways families and children are brought together, including LinkMaker, Adoption Activity Days, and profiling events. The second session explored what happens after a potential match is found, from the linking process through to panel, transitions, placement, and the support available.