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MEETATEAMMEMBER: ANNANYAMHOTSI
Adoption Services Manager
Q: Anna, you’ve been with St David’s since 2015. Can you tell us more about your journey with the organisation?
A: I joined St David’s initially as an Adoption Team Manager and I'm now in the role of Adoption Services Manager. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to our adoption services, helping children find their forever homes and supporting families.
I also manage our access to records and intermediary services, where we work with adopted adults and birth families who have been impacted by historical adoption (from the 1940s to the 1980s)
Q: Your career in social work spans many years. What roles have you held before joining St David’s?
A: I began my career in 2000 as a social worker in a childcare team, which provided me with invaluable, hands-on experience. I then progressed to a social worker and then team manager role within a local authority adoption team, which helped me develop the skills necessary to effectively manage adoption services.
Q: You also serve as a panel advisor to the adoption panel. Can you explain a bit about what that role involves?
A: The approval stage is a key part of the adoption process As a panel advisor, I provide guidance and support to the panel to assist them when considering the Prospective Adopters' Report (PAR), so they are able to make a well-informed recommendation to the Agency's Decision Maker in respect of suitability to adopt. The panel consider he strengths and qualities needed to care for children who have had a difficult start in life and are ocused on making recommendations in the best nterest of the children waiting.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of your work with St David’s?
A: Seeing families come together through adoption has been incredibly rewarding Knowing that our work helps create loving, stable homes for children s what motivates me each day The positive mpact we have on children’s lives makes it all worthwhile.
Q: With your extensive experience, what do you think is essential for success in adoption services?
A: Building strong relationships with families, ensuring children’s needs are met, and providing ongoing support to both adopters and children are key to successful outcomes in adoption services. At St David’s, we strive to offer the best support at every stage.
Q: Finally, looking ahead, what are you most excited about in the future of adoption services at St David’s?
A: I’m excited about the continued growth and impact of our adoption services. We are always looking for ways to improve and innovate to ensure that the children waiting can find their forever families. It’s an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to being part of that ongoing success.
VOLUNTEERING &ADVOCACY
Adoption is a journey often filled with questions, hopes, uncertainties, and, ultimately, joy. At St. David’s, we understand that one of the most effective ways to support prospective adopters is through the voices of those who have walked the path themselves. That’s why volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. From peer supporters and training speakers to support group facilitators and panel members, these individuals make a lasting difference—not only by giving their time but also by offering the kind of connection and insight that only lived experience can provide
Volunteer Spotlights: Real People, Real Impact
We have the privilege of celebrating the contributions of our incredible volunteers. They are the quiet champions, the steady hands, and the friendly voices who help others find their way.
One couple, Buddy X and Buddy Y, who adopted through St. David’s a few years ago, is a perfect example of this. After completing their adoption journey, they felt a strong desire to give back—to be the people they had once needed Now, they serve as ‘buddies’, offering peer support to those just starting on the path to adoption
They recently supported a new couple going through the early stages of assessment. Through regular phone calls, warm encouragement, and sharing personal reflections about the first days of placement, the fears they faced, the support they leaned on, and the unexpected moments of joy they helped the new family feel more grounded and confident.
SMALLWAYSTO MAKEABIG IMPACT
At St. David’s, we know that every act of support no matter how big or small can help change a child’s life. Whether it’s through legacy giving or simply sharing a social media post, there are so many meaningful ways you can get involved and make a lasting difference
Leaving a Legacy
Have you ever considered the impact you could have, even after you ' re gone? Legacy giving is a powerful way to ensure your values live on and continue to support vulnerable children. By leaving a gift in your will whether a fixed amount, a percentage of your estate, or a specific item you can help St. David’s continue our life-changing work for generations to come.
Including St. David’s in your will is easier than you might think, and it’s a wonderful way to create a lasting legacy of love, security, and hope for children in need of a family If you ' re curious about how to get started, we’re always here to help with friendly, nopressure advice
Support Beyond Donations
Not everyone is in a position to give financially—and that’s absolutely okay There are lots of other ways to support us that cost nothing but mean everything Leaving a positive Google review can help more people discover who we are and what we do Sharing one of our social media posts can reach someone who’s been thinking about adoption and just needs that little nudge. Even talking to friends, family, or colleagues about adoption can plant seeds of change. These simple actions help raise awareness, break down myths, and encourage others to learn more about adoption and how they might be able to help.
Why I Support St. David’s
"I first got involved with St. David’s after a close friend adopted through them. Seeing the transformation in that child’s life—and the incredible support the whole family received—moved me deeply I’m not in a place to adopt myself, but I wanted to do something to help I’ve left a gift in my will, and I always try to share their posts online or bring them up when people talk about family. It feels good to know I’m helping in my way. "
Rachel, legacy pledger and long-time supporter
See more of our work HERE
TOGETHERWE MAKEA DIFFERENCE PLAYLIST
We're thrilled to continue offering a special addition to our quality newsletter. In each issue, we feature the St. David's Positive Vibes Playlist, a carefully curated collection of uplifting and feel-good tunes designed to inspire positivity and bring joy to listeners.
Created by St David's Children's Society, this playlist serves as a reminder of the power of music in promoting emotional well-being and resilience. With a blend of genres and artists, it highlights songs that encourage hope, unity, and personal growth, making it the perfect soundtrack for families, children, and supporters alike
Whether you ' re celebrating milestones or seeking a moment of upliftment, the St. David's Positive Vibes Playlist is sure to brighten your day.
Listen Here
