Most children in the care system can expect at least one move from foster home to adoptive family. Some, unfortunately, can experience many moves and may spend long periods of time in temporary foster care.

Yet, experience has taught us that:

We know that uncertainty and moves to a new placement can be disruptive and damaging.

At Manchester Adoption Society, the Goodman Team provide a Concurrent Planning service. Concurrent planning originated in America and was pioneered in the UK by Manchester Adoption Society in the late '90s. It is now delivered by four teams across the country. Concurrent Planning aims to reduce the amount of moves for younger children (up to age 6). The Team seeks to place them with Carers who are approved to foster and adopt, therefore reducing the amount of moves and uncertainty for the child. Whilst the child or children are being fostered by MAS Concurrent Planning carers the Goodman Team assess the birth relatives of the child or children to see if a return home is possible. After a period of assessment the Team make a recommendation to the Courts about whether the child or children can be returned to birth relatives or whether they should be adopted by their foster carers. The Courts make the final decision. This is a challenging experience for all the adults involved however the child or children have formed bonds both with their carers and their birth relatives. Wherever they are finally cared for will be familiar and they will have strong attachments. This is in the best interests of the child.

Manchester Adoption Society’s Goodman Team seeks single parents or couples of any ethnic, religious or domestic background who are able to put the needs of these children first and are prepared to work with the birth families while the child’s future is being decided. Most importantly, the families must be able to give the child the love, stability and attention needed to continue their development.

The Goodman Team provide the training and support needed to take on this role, providing 24 hour support and a dedicated team who are always willing to help.