As LGBT Fostering and Adoption Week kicks off from today (5th March) Somerset County Council have chosen to fly the rainbow flag at County Hall to mark the event. It’s a symbol of support for those in the LGBT community, who want to make a difference to children’s lives.
In a press release from Somerset County Council, they tell the story of Caroline and her partner, Liz, who have been fostering for six months and how it gives them a real sense of satisfaction: “We went along to a fostering information evening and following that, we decided that we wanted to give a child a safe and loving home. We foster because we want to support children who are experiencing difficulties in their life and to give back to our community. What we get out of fostering is the knowledge that we are keeping someone safe, and when we hear a giggle or see a smile, it just makes our heart flutter.”
Caroline and Liz have written a blog about their fostering experience, that can be read here: www.fosteradoptsomerset.org.uk, to offer advice to other potential foster carers.
Cllr Frances Nicholson, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Somerset County Council, said: “Flying the LGBTQA+ rainbow flag at County Hall is a symbol of our appreciation for LGBTQA+ foster carers and adopters, and of our commitment to break down existing preconceptions regarding who can foster or adopt. There are vulnerable children in Somerset who need help, and we are keen to encourage other enthusiastic, community minded people like Caroline and Liz to come forward. Your age, gender, sexual orientation or marital status are not important – it’s what you can offer a child that counts.”
If you have a spare room, time and a willingness to care for a child, Somerset County Council would love to hear from you. You can call the Council on 0800 587 9900, visit the website www.fosteradoptsomerset.org.uk or come to an information event to find out more.
The next fostering and adoption information events take place on:
Wednesday 14th March, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5EG
Tuesday 17th April Bridgwater TA6 3BU
Wednesday 16th May Yeovil BA20 1LE
You can hear more about Adoption and Fostering and have a chance to speak to professional and friendly staff, foster carers and adopters. Everyone who attends an event will get a free Costa Coffee and a cake. Please reserve a place by calling 0800 587 9900.
Find out more about adoption and fostering in Somerset and read real experiences like those Caroline and Liz visit www.fosteradoptsomerset.org.uk or phone 0800 587 9900 Like @adoptioninsomerset @fosteringinsomerset on Facebook and Twitter
