Hertfordshire County Council is supporting this year’s sixth annual LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) Adoption and Fostering Week to help raise awareness about the need for more adopters and foster carers throughout the county.
LGBT Adoption and Fostering Week runs from March 6-12 and aims to reach potential adoptive parents and foster carers with information about how to get involved.
Hertfordshire County Council is holding an open event on Saturday 11 March at the Bourne Hotel in Hemel Hempstead (HP2 AYL) from 10.30am 1.30pm, as part of LGBT Adoption and Fostering Week for potential parents to come and hear more about the process, and to talk to local adopters and foster carers.
We welcome LGBT potential adopters and foster carers to provide the loving stable homes that our children in care need. Nationally 1 in 10 adoptions are already with same sex couples.
Richard Roberts, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “We know from many years of experience that LGBT people come with open minded enthusiasm about the possibilities of starting a family through adoption or fostering.”
“All our children in care have had a tough start in life but we reach out to everyone without prejudice to ask if you would be willing to go that extra mile and offer a stable, warm and loving family environment for our young people to grow and thrive in.”
“It’s a big ask, on behalf of children in care but do come along and see if it’s for you.”
There are almost 1000 children looked after across Hertfordshire County Council. Fostering opportunities are available on short and long-term placements.
LGBT Adoption & Fostering Week is organised by New Family Social, a charity that supports LGBT adopters and foster carers across the UK.
Tor Docherty, New Family Social’s Chief Executive, said: “Record numbers of LGBT people now choose to adopt or foster. But YouGov polling shows many believe they’ll be discriminated against by agencies, with eight in ten lesbian, gay and bisexual people expecting to face barriers if they apply to become foster parents.”
“We’re delighted that Hertfordshire County Council is supporting the week and trying to encourage more LGBT people to explore adoption or foster caring.”
You can find your nearest information event on adoption or foster caring at:
www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/fostering
If you are interested in finding out more about adoption or fostering then please call us on or visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/fosteringwishlist
