Matching panel

Day 346

The day before matching panel. Much as before, Helen arranged a call with Bill and June to share the questions they would be asked and helped them prepare how they might choose to answer them. These touch points from the social worker were always highly valued, as it helped make sure they didn't go into milestone moments with any doubts.

Day 347

You would think that after the first panel, Bill and June would feel ready for the Matching Panel. If anything, though, this felt like the hardest part yet.

Questions were no longer about them, their home, or general suitability. Instead, they focussed on their relationship with Sprout: how they would raise them, how they would address parts of their background, and how they would handle specific scenarios — all for a child they had met just once, for less than an hour.

Despite the challenge, all the questions came from a good place, and as before, they had received them in advance. This allowed time to pause, reflect, and consider thoughtful answers. It was a tough call, but naturally, the outcome was exactly what everyone wanted: the match was approved.

Day 348

Following the Matching Panel, a plan for transitions was agreed. These were to take place over a week, starting on 359, with a planned move-in date of Day 365.

The transition plan began with Bill and June spending time with Sprout at the foster carers’ home. They observed Sprout’s routines, gradually taking on more care responsibilities. Over the next few days, they would build up the time spent caring for Sprout independently. The final two days were planned at their own home, and on Day 365, Sprout would officially move in.

The days leading up to the start of transitions felt like an eternity, but Bill and June knew the wait would be worth it.