Campaign calls for LGBT+ people to consider adoption to ‘Build Your Family’

LGBT+ people are being encouraged to consider adoption this LGBT+ Adoption and Fostering Week.

Adoption@Heart, the Regional Adoption Agency for the Black Country, is backing the national campaign, which runs from 1 – 7 March 2021 and calls for LGBT+ people to consider either adoption or fostering to ‘Build Your Family’.

Build Your Family – the campaign theme – helps LGBT+ people view the adoption and fostering assessment process in easy stages. The campaign starts by showcasing LGBT+ parented adoptive and foster families.

Latest statistics show that 1 in 6 adoptions in 2020 were to same-sex couples, the highest proportion since records began and 500 children last year were adopted by same-sex couples.

New Family Social founded Adoption and Fostering Week and provides support to people from the LGBT+ community going through the adoption and fostering process. It works directly with its members and agencies to find families for children in care.

Carol Moses, Recruitment & Assessment Team Manager said: “Adopters come from all walks of life and all applications are welcome and will be treated equally.

“We are proud to be a member of New Family Social and to continue supporting the work it does, particularly around LGBT+ Adoption and Fostering Week.

“Adoption@Heart will always encourage enquiries from LGBT+ people - if you're interested in finding out more or feel ready to start your adoption journey, call us today.”

Anyone can adopt, whether they are single, living together, married, a same sex couple, in employment or not working, or already have children or not. Potential adopters must legally be a UK resident and have been so for at least 12 months, as well as being aged 21 or over. They should have a spare bedroom and be able to provide a stable home for a child until adulthood and beyond.

The Adoption and Children Act 2002 gave unmarried couples, including same sex couples, the right to adopt. It became law in December 2005. LGBT+ couples don’t need to be in a civil partnership or married to adopt and single adopters are also welcome, whatever their gender or sexual orientation.

Due to Coronavirus restrictions, Adoption@Heart have moved all their information events online. The virtual information events take place every two weeks and are the perfect place for those who are ready to start their adoption journey or would like more information.

Future event dates are available here which include details on how to book your place via Eventbrite.

For more information call 01902 55 3818 or email info@adoptionatheart.org.uk

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