Same-sex couple break stereotypes by celebrating 11 years of fostering

Oldham Council encourages LGBTQ+ individuals to explore the opportunities and rewards of fostering during National LGBT+ History Month.

LGBTQ+ couple Sharon and Bev have been fostering with the council for over a decade.

The couple, who have been together some 39 years, said: "We once thought LGBTQ+ people couldn't foster or adopt - but this is not the case, and now we have been fostering for over eleven years with Oldham Council.”

Fostering is about giving children a loving home, and it doesn't care about your sexuality, gender, race, or beliefs. The assessment process checks if you can provide a safe and loving home, giving everyone a fair chance.

"The fact we were a lesbian couple didn't matter during the assessment. We were treated just like any other couple. No one judged us for being LGBTQ+. It was all about our ability to care for a child," emphasised Sharon and Bev.

Fostering isn't just about helping children; it's also an option for those who can't adopt or have their birth children to build a family.

"If you're LGBTQ+ and thinking about fostering, just go for it. Ask questions and contact Oldham Fostering Service today. The training gives you a real look at fostering and how your unique skills can make a big difference in a child's life. They'll bring joy to yours, too," Sharon and Bev added.

Oldham Council wants everyone to know that LGBTQ+ people often have unique qualities that make them great at fostering. They frequently understand what it feels like to experience discrimination or prejudice, and that helps them create a safe place for children who've been through tough times.

Councillor Shaid Mushtaq, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "Sharon and Bev's story is inspiring. I cannot praise their commitment and excellent care for young people enough over their eleven years of fostering. Fostering is open to everyone who can provide children with safe and loving homes. Their story will inspire anyone thinking about becoming a foster parent.

“If you think you have the space in your home, heart, and skills needed to help children thrive, please contact Oldham Fostering Service.”

All carers receive tailored support, comprehensive training, and up to £29,000 annually (depending on skills and experience).

The first £18,140 you receive is tax-free, even if you work or have other income. And there is additional tax relief for every week you foster a child. This is known as qualifying care relief.

The financial rewards don’t stop there, and there’s the potential to receive other benefits and allowances, such as holiday pay and additional payments to cover the cost of the child's activities and hobbies, shares the council.

*For more information, call 0161 770 6600 or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/fostering.