Anella believes that identifying sexuality for young people and LGBTQ+ acceptance is vital.  She told us…

‘I feel that another area of importance is in highlighting the need for younger foster carers, particularly for identifying sexuality for young people today. ‘Identity’ for young people is very relevant. I am hugely passionate about this as I identify as ‘not straight’/bisexual’; I prefer ’not straight.’

‘I know that times have changed; thankfully, we are now so much better at reflecting on these changing times and how we can improve our skills. However, parenting for LGBT+ young people can still be seen as ‘unknown territory’. This change in attitudes and choices for young people reflects the care we offer to them. This is vital because LGBT+ young people face many barriers that significantly impact their future lives.

‘LGBTQ+ young people in care can face even more barriers and adverse experiences in foster care. As a result, LGBTQ+young people are more likely to find themselves homeless that their non-LGBTQ+ peers.’

‘I know from my personal and professional life, working with children and younger people, of the need for LGBTQ+ awareness and inclusion for young people. I also feel that younger foster carers can be more likely to deliver an authentically inclusive home environment and LGBT+ care by the sharing of knowledge.’

‘‘As a younger foster carer, I am passionate about promoting younger people becoming foster carers.’

‘Caritas Care hit the nail on the head for me; they understood what I felt when I said that younger foster carers were younger heads. I have the wisdom that comes with skills and experience in caring for children in residential care. Still, I have my youth which means I want to be a foster carer with them for a long time. In return, I have from Caritas Care a sense of belonging, they empower you as a carer, and I am delighted to be guided by them as an agency. I chose well; I decided on Caritas Care.’

‘Younger foster carers are younger heads. I am proud to be a Caritas Care Foster Carer!’

Rated Outstanding by Ofsted.

Special thanks to Verve Recruitment for their support in helping us find more foster carer for more children.