Did you know that 1 in 3 people believe you cannot foster a child if you’re gay or in a same sex relationship? This is simply not correct.
Back in the year 2006, adoption rules changed which meant same-sex couples were allowed to foster children. Since this change occurred, the number of LGB foster carers has continued to steadily rise. Despite the rise, there’s always a need for more foster carers. Whether you’re single or part of a couple, sexuality should not get in the way of becoming a foster parent.
Foster carers come in all shapes and sizes. Foster carers do not have to be in a couple and can be living alone as a single person, and both sexuality and gender are not relevant to a fostering application. If you are in a new relationship and want to foster a child, you may be offered some advice to wait and apply at a later date. Though this is not a representation of your relationship, some bonds can develop and change. All potential foster carers are asked the same set of questions, some of which may feel slightly invasive. It’s important to explore your options as much as you can and ask questions.
Fostering, though satisfying and gratifying, can be very challenging at times. As an LGB foster carer, there may be times when you are faced with awkward or intimidating questions from intrigued children and adults. If you’re faced with a tricky situation and need some extra support, we are there to help. Our 24-hour support workers are always at the end of the phone no matter the time of day, recognising placements tend to last if foster carers are supported properly. Little Acorns Fostering also hold formal foster carer training on a bi-monthly basis, covering a wide range of subjects and carer support groups in between.
If you’re an LGB individual or couple and are considering becoming a foster carer, you can find out more by giving our friendly and experienced advisors a call on 01440 732010. Alternatively, you can fill out the form on our contact page.