Cumbria Adoption is inviting members of the LGBTQ+ community to attend an online adoption information event on Wednesday 21 June and find out more about starting their family through adoption during Pride Month 2023.
The adoption service, which works on behalf of Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council, welcomes enquiries from members of the LGBTQ+ community and has already helped many same-sex couples and single LGBTQ+ people to adopt.
Cumbrian adopters Andy Bond and his husband Steve started their journey in 2018 and their family of two grew to a family of four when they adopted brothers, then aged 1 and 2 that very same year.
Andy said: “Our adoption experience was a very positive one and it all ran very smoothly. Within just three months of being approved our sons were living with us and it completely changed our lives. Getting two children at such a young age was fun for me – I work with children, so I was in my comfort zone and having them is everything we could have ever wanted.
"There’s never a 100% right time to become a parent and just because your child isn’t biologically linked to you doesn’t mean you’re not a parent. Adoption has solidified our dreams and even our family and friends forget that our boys are adopted.”
Cllr Emma Williamson, Executive member for Children and Family Wellbeing, said: “At Cumbria Adoption we welcome applications from LGBTQ+ adopters. We know from experience that same sex couples can be excellent parents and have so much to offer children who are waiting for a forever family."
Cumbria Adoption welcomes adopters regardless of age, marital status, gender, sexuality, disability or employment status and in most cases the process takes 6-8 months.
Cllr Sue Sanderson, Cabinet member Children’s Services, Education and Skills, said: “Adoption transforms the lives of those it touches and this Pride Month we’re asking anyone who has ever thought about adoption to find out more. Whether you’re married, single, gay or heterosexual, if you think you might be able to give a vulnerable child a loving home, please get in touch or attend an event.”
If you've been thinking about adoption but aren't sure where to start, our adoption information events are the ideal introduction. Our events are held online so you can join us from the comfort of your home and they last around an hour.
At each information event, our adoption experts will give an overview of the adoption process, the timescales involved and answer any questions guests many have.
Our next event takes place on Wednesday 21 June at 12.30pm. To book onto our upcoming event please email events@cumbriaadoption.org.uk stating which date you would like to attend and one of our team will send you the Teams link for the event.
Visit cumbriaadoption.org.uk for full details on all upcoming events or to register for a private one to one appointment.