Adoption agency appeals for more gay, lesbian or transgender adopters in Milton Keynes

Next week is LGBT+ Adoption & Fostering Week and MK's independent adoption agency St. Francis’ Children’s Society (SFCS) is taking the opportunity to encourage members of the community to consider adoption.

Last year one in six adoptions in England were to same-sex couples - but more than 3,000 children in the UK are still awaiting adoption.

Now in its tenth year, LGBT+ Adoption & Fostering Week is organised by New Family Social, a charity that

supports LGBT+ adopters and foster carers across the UK.

The theme this year is Build Your Family and the campaign will explain various stages of the adoption and fostering assessment and approval processes.

SFCS will be joining adoption and fostering agencies across the UK to support the campaign, and will be

sharing lots of advice and information online throughout the week.

One couple, Emma and Zoe, have described their journey to become adoptive parents to two boys through SFCS.

Emma says: “Initially we were worried that our sexuality would harm our chances of adopting, when in fact it wasn’t an issue at all.

"We were welcomed at SFCS and they were so open and really put our minds at rest. If adoption is something that you feel is right for you, then go for it. Being LGBTQ+ is not something that should ever hold you back from adopting.

"What is important is that you have enough space physically and emotionally for a child. Our boys really don’t care that they have a Mummy and a Mama; they are safe and they are loved.”

SFCS publish a wide range of adoption information resources on their website, alongside real-life stories

from gay, lesbian and trans couples who have adopted their children through the Society.

The society will also be hosting an online information event during LGBT+ Adoption & Fostering Week. The event is taking place via Zoom at 6.30pm on Wednesday March 3, and is open to anyone who is considering growing their family through adoption.

You can email [email protected] if you would like details of how to join this event.