Building a family
‘Building a family’ is the theme of this year’s LGBT+ Adoption and Fostering Week (1-4 March).
Adoption South East has a strong history of assessing and placing children with families who identify as LGBT+ and are proud members of New Family Social the only charity led by LGBT+ adopters and foster carers.
Last year 1 in 6 adoptions in England were to same-sex couples.
Councillor Hills, deputy chair of Brighton & Hove’s Children, Young People & Skills Committee says: “Everyone who has the qualities to give a loving home to children and young people should be applauded and encouraged.
“Families come in all shapes and sizes and we would wholeheartedly welcome more LGBT+ couples to be a part of our region’s fostering and adoption service. If you think you’ve got what it takes to build a family, please do come forward”.
A couple's experience
Paul and Ben have two boys, who were aged seven and two when they adopted them.
Explaining their experience, Paul said: “Like any couple we were a little bit apprehensive about going along to the Information Event. But once we were there it was completely fine and everyone was so welcoming.
“There was no bias or prejudice towards us and we were treated with the same respect as the heterosexual couples. It was valuable for us to meet existing adopters and to hear their stories and experiences.
“Felix and Nicky have changed our lives dramatically, and wonderfully. The support we have had from our social worker and from other organisations has been fantastic.
“We would say to anyone thinking about adoption just go for it! It is the most amazing thing to be part of.”
Have you got what it takes?
Brighton & Hove’s fostering team is a member of New Family Social and offers a wealth of resources to all foster carers once they are approved.
Fostering recruitment manager Cathy Seiderer, says: “We are looking for foster carers who can care for vulnerable children and provide a stable, loving home.
"We welcome everyone who can make a positive difference to a child’s life”.
Michael Wilson Head of Adoption South East adds: “Our job is to help to build families for children who need them and to support those families over time. We need parents who know and understand themselves, and who have space in their hearts and their homes for some remarkable children.
“These are not qualities that are dependent upon sexual orientation or gender identity. If you believe yourselves to have these important personal qualities, and you can open your heart and your home to children who need a family and a loving, safe environment, we want to hear from you.”
More about LGBT+ adoption and foster families
Find out about fostering or adopting in Brighton & Hove