LGBTQ+ Adoption and Fostering Week returns from 2 March, encouraging more LGBTQ+ people across the UK to explore adoption and fostering as ways to build their family.

Led by New Family Social, the annual campaign brings together agencies nationwide to provide honest information, share real experiences and help people feel confident taking their first steps.

There’s no perfect time.

This year’s theme, “Now’s the time,” recognises that many people wait for the right moment to begin their journey, but perfection rarely arrives. With a growing need for foster carers and adoptive parents, the campaign encourages people to start exploring their options now, even if they are only at the early stages of thinking about a family.

Across the UK, thousands of children and young people are currently in care and need safe, supportive homes. In England alone, more than 81,000 children are looked after by the care system, highlighting the ongoing need for people who can offer stability and care.

Run by LGBTQ+ adopters and foster carers, the week aims to challenge myths and show what adoption and fostering really look like. Throughout the campaign, agencies across England, AScotlan and Wales will share short films and stories from people who have already begun their adoption or fostering journeys.

The campaign helps potential applicants to:

-        Hear directly from LGBTQ+ adopters and foster carers

-        Learn about different routes into fostering and adoption

-        Find welcoming agencies, like Caritas Care, in their local area

-        Ask questions and access clear, honest information with no pressure to commit.

To Docherty, Chief Executive of New Family Social, said the campaign is about encouraging people who may have assumed adoption or fostering was for ‘later’ to start learning more now.

Start exploring with Caritas Care

During the week, Caritas Care will be sharing information and resources to help LGBTQ+ people understand the support available at every stage of fostering and adoption.

If you’ve ever wondered whether fostering or adoption could be right for you, LGBTQ+ Adoption & Fostering week offers a welcoming place to begin.

At Caritas Care, we welcome enquiries from people of all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ community. Our team offers ongoing training, practical support and a friendly, honest approach from your first contact with us.

If you’re curious about adoption or fostering, even if you’re just starting to explore, we’re here to answer your questions. Get in touch today!