This week we chat to our foster carer Naz who has been fostering with her partner Ann-Marie for over 3 years. We wanted to get her insight into fostering as a same sex couple and what her fostering journey has been like so far.

 

How long have you been fostering? 

We’ve been fostering since August 2014

 

How many children have you fostered and of what ages?

18 children so far!  We’ve looked after children of all differing ages from 2 weeks old up to 16. We are approved to look after children between  0-18 including mum & baby placements, sibling groups, teenagers, and unaccompanied minors.

 

Why did you want to become a foster carer?

We thought about adoption but then realised that the children were the same whether you adopt or foster as they come from the same system and there were so many children in the system already we could help more than just one if we fostered.

 

How did you find the application process?

It was an extremely in depth process. We worked with a lovely lady called Sarah who managed to really understand us & so it was quite self empowering.  I found it to be a really positive and insightful experience.

 

What has been the best thing about fostering?

Baby cuddles & engaging with the older children and feeling a real connection with them.

A great experience was seeing one of our foster kids working in Churchill Square, being independent, happy  & enjoying life.

 

What has been the hardest thing about fostering?

Saying goodbye to the younger children and babies we’ve looked after.

 

As an LGBT carer have you experienced any specific challenges/ discrimination/issues?

No, we’ve had a positive experience so far as LGBT foster carers

 

What would you say to other LGBT people who are considering fostering?

DO IT!  

It's SO rewarding; challenging YES, heartbreaking sometimes, but also fun, exciting, thrilling, you learn so much about the different children & so much more about yourself, it changes you (corny i know!) it makes you a better person; better at dealing with challenges, patience, talking, compromising & yes loving. 

Fostering has filled a gap I didn't know was there.

 

If you're a member of the LGBT community and have been thinking about fostering and want to find out more, you'll meet some of our team and our LGBT carers at the events below:

LGBT Fostering Drop in session - Wed 27th September - Red Roaster Coffee Shop Kemp Town - 10-2pm

LGBT Information Session - Tues 3rd October - Sussex Cricket Ground - 6.30-8.30pm

 

For an informal chat call us on 01273 295444 or visit our website www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/fostering