13 Mar Essex Couples encouraged to foster during LGBT Fostering Week
by Simon Phetter
Caring people of all sexualities were encouraged to help change the lives of children in Essex last week during the LGBT Adoption and Fostering Week.
Essex County Council’s foster families and adopters give loving homes to hundreds of children in care every year. About 20 per cent of the authority’s adopters are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, and the council is very clear that sexuality is no barrier to adoption and fostering.
LGBT Adoption and Fostering Week, which took place from 6 March to 12 March, is a national awareness event organised by New Family Social – the UK’s support group for LGBT adopters and foster carers.
Cllr Dick Madden, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Children, said: “Our adopters and foster carers play a vital role in providing safe and loving homes for children in care in Essex.
“They come from all different walks of life and backgrounds, and we are very clear that sexuality is never a barrier.
“More adopters and foster families are still needed in Essex and I would encourage anyone with the patience, time and commitment to help change children’s lives to get in touch with us.”
To find out more about fostering or adoption or make an enquiry, please visit http://www.essexadoptionandfostering.co.uk or call 0800 801 530.
