A Hemel Hempstead couple take pride in their many years of fostering and claim they have not found any barriers as a gay couple.
Pete Shuttleworth and his partner Ray Shaughnessy have fostered children for around nine years, offering mainly respite care.
As part of LGBT+ Adoption and Fostering Week (March 5-11), Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) is hoping to dispel the misconceptions that LGBT+ people cannot adopt or foster.
The council will always consider applications from anyone able to offer a child a loving and secure home.
Pete said: “Fostering is quite tough but it’s also rewarding. What amazes me is the children we looked after. All of them didn’t care at all that we were gay. They just wanted to know what room was theirs, what they were having for dinner or whether they could see a friend.
“Hertfordshire County Council has been great. The first time we walked into one of its events and showed an interest, we didn’t know what to expect but we were made to feel very welcome.”
Councillor Teresa Heritage, deputy leader of HCC and cabinet member for Children, Young People and Families, said: “We welcome applications from anyone who can provide a loving, nurturing and secure environment for children to grow and thrive.
“As a local authority, we encourage people from all backgrounds and communities to foster or adopt with us and we are inviting our local LGBT+ community to come and speak to us about the options available.”
HCC welcome applications from the LGBTQ + community for those would like to adopt.
Visit hertfordshire.gov.uk/adoption to find out more.
Anyone who fosters with HCC can expect a generous allowance, full training and unrivalled local support.
For more information visit hertfordshire.gov.uk/fostering
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