Find out more at an online event

The next step is to find out more about the process and what it's like. The current restrictions mean that information sessions are held virtually, but that shouldn't put you off. These sessions are a real opportunity to understand how involved the assessment process is, as well as how that particular agency will support you. 

You can find sessions taking place soon on our event tool. Some are even specifically held for LGBT+ potential applicants. New Family Social hosts virtual sessions once a month specifically for LGBT+ people interested in finding out more about adoption and fostering.

To access the tool, sign up for a free New Family Social Bronze membership. Then, once you've done that, log in and head over to the tool on your 'My NFS' page.

Alternatively you can watch this pre-recorded session:

Find an agency that fits

Once you're comfortable with the process the next stage is to identify the right agency for you. It may be one that you've attended an information session for already. It may be one that your friends or contacts used. At New Family Social we strongly recommend talking to a number of agencies - not every agency will be right for you. There are different strengths to all agencies, whether they are run by local authorities, the voluntary sector or the private sector.

Our agency finder can help you identify those that offer dedicated support to LGBT+ adopters and foster carers through their membership of New Family Social. To access the finder sign up for a free New Family Social Bronze membership. Then, once you've done that, log in and select 'My NFS' and then 'Friendly agencies'.

When you're exploring agencies it can be helpful to ask questions such as 'how many LGBT+ people are you currently assessing?', 'What experience does your team have in supporting LGBT+ people?' and so on. Agency staff should be able to answer these questions. 

Pursue the process

The assessment processes for adoption and fostering may be slightly delayed as a result of the current pandemic. The processes are robust, to make sure vulnerable children are placed with people who can provide them with the parenting and support they need. For LGBT+ people the process can feel intrusive. While coming out is an ongoing process for all LGBT+ people, the level and frequency of disclosures the process requires can seem invasive. For this reason it's key that you have a strong relationship with your assessing social worker, who usually acts as your advocate at the approval panels.

Find out more about the assessment process for adoption

Find out more about the assessment process for fostering

Listen: