LGBTQ+ Fostering
There are many misconceptions about who can foster and a third of LGBTQ+ people still think that their sexual orientation will cause a barrier to becoming a foster carer. At Futures For Children, we understand that there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ foster carer. To us, your sexual orientation is not a deciding factor and we are always looking for foster carers with different sexual orientations, and cultural, religious, and racial backgrounds, whether married, single or already part of a family.
How do I foster as a part of the LGBTQ+ community?
At Futures For Children, we do not discriminate against anyone. We treat every person enquiring with us the same, whether you are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer +. We try our best to always show an inclusive environment so no one feels left out or like they are being treated unfairly.
So, if you are of the LGBTQ+ community, your fostering process will be the same as everyone else's. You must enquire with us either through private message on Facebook, filling out an enquiry form, emailing us, or calling us. We will help you every step of the way through the whole process so if you have any concerns, you know we are right there with you.
Why should you consider fostering as an LGBTQ+ member?
When LGBT+ Adoption week started in 2012, just 1 in 22 adoptions were to same-sex couples. In 2020, this changed to 1 in 6! This is an amazing progression and we hope these statistics continue to rise. But don't worry, you do not need to be in a relationship to foster if you are gay or of the LGBTQ+ community.
Foster children are often going through personal struggles whilst in care. This can cause them to feel different from their peers and like they are misunderstood. They need someone that makes them feel comfortable and accepted; someone who can understand their struggles, and someone that can be loving and give them the attention they need to become the best versions of themselves.
So, if you think you can be the 'someone' a child needs, please don't hesitate to fill out an enquiry form or give us a ring on 01622 760600 to find out more about fostering with Futures For Children.
What about LGBTQ+ foster children?
We understand that our LGBTQ+ support and acceptance can't stop at our foster carers.
It is important to us that the children we have in care are paired with foster carers who can provide the right guidance and have had training so young people feel accepted and have an environment where they can feel safe to express themselves in a supportive family.
To support our children and young people we have our carers and staff take part in regular LGBTQ+ awareness training which has covered subjects such as terminology, legislation, understanding the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity, and LGBTQ+ people in care's experiences.
Want to find out more?
If you are still unsure if fostering is for you, take a look at our other pages. Hopefully, these can clear up any questions or concerns you might have.
Meet our LGBTQ+ foster carers Desi and Pricilla
Fostering myths
What you need to know about fostering
Interested in Becoming a Foster Carer?
We're pleased that you would like to register your interest in fostering with Futures Group.
- Have a spare bedroom
- Are over 21 years of age (there is no upper age limit)
- Have experience of interacting with children or young people
We're always looking for foster carers from different cultural, religious and racial backgrounds, single people, couples (whether married or living together, with or without children). Together we can make a difference to children's lives.