The Evolution of LGBTQ+ Fostering
Introduction:
February, commemorating LGBT History Month in the United Kingdom, is a time to celebrate the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ history, achievements, and progress. In fostering, the journey towards inclusivity and acceptance has been particularly poignant. This blog explores the history of LGBT fostering in England, shedding light on our achievements in LGBTQ+ inclusion at Three Circles Fostering.
The Early Years 1980’s:
In the early days of fostering, traditional norms and societal expectations dominated the landscape. Resistance and discrimination often greeted the idea of same-sex couples or individuals becoming foster carers. However, evolving societal attitudes recognised that love, care, and a supportive environment are universal needs transcending sexual orientation. Surprisingly, there is no national data on LGBTQ+ foster carers throughout history, but the fostering sector aims to start collecting this data nationally by 2025.
The anecdotal evidence from the 80s, shared in the first-ever publication on LGBT fostering and adoption in 1988 by Skeates and Jabri, proposed that labels like 'lesbian' and 'gay' were linked with perceptions of gender nonconformity. Discriminatory opinions within the social care sector led to rejection of many LGBTQ+ applications based on sexual orientation. Those approved as foster carers faced prejudicial attitudes and were disproportionately placed with children with disabilities (Skeates and Jabri, 1988, p 56).
Introduced in 1988, Section 28 had a profound and initially detrimental impact on the history of LGBT fostering in England. Enacted to prohibit the "promotion of homosexuality" in schools, it silenced discussions on diverse sexual orientations. Section 28 not only perpetuated stigma but also contributed to fostering agencies' reluctance to embrace and support LGBTQ+ individuals. Its oppressive nature hindered progress, fostering an environment where discrimination and prejudice thrived. Change only came with the repeal of Section 28 in 2003.
The 1990’s:
Despite adversity posed by Section 28, the response among lesbians and gay men interested in foster care or adoption was one of resilience. In 1988, the Lesbian & Gay Foster & Adoptive Parents Network (LAGFAPN) was formed, advocating for fair and open treatment. LAGFAPN became not just a support network but also a dedicated advocate, marking a significant chapter in responding to Section 28.
A prevailing atmosphere of fear and apprehension characterised the times. Many prospective foster parents hesitated to disclose their sexual orientation, dreading potential prejudice and discrimination. The climate was exacerbated by the 1990 consultation paper on family placement under the Children Act 1989, which acknowledged the importance of not arbitrarily excluding any particular groups from consideration but maintained a stance that certain lifestyles might not provide a suitable environment for child care. The paper explicitly stated, "No one has a ‘right’ to be a foster parent. ‘Equal rights’ and ‘gay rights’ policies have no place in fostering services" (Department of Health, 1990, para 16).
Fear of headlines added to the considerable challenges faced by prospective LGBT foster parents. The Sunday Express, in its 1990 exposé titled 'Stop This Outrage,' propagated damaging narratives, asserting that children were 'being handed over to homosexual couples...' (Sunday Express, 1990, p 1). Such sensationalism further fueled societal biases and contributed to the perpetuation of discriminatory practices within the fostering system.
Turning point
Helen Brown's (1991) research raised concerns about the potential clash between the rights of foster children and equitable assessments of LGBTQ+ individuals. Throughout the decade, there was a growing awareness of discriminatory policies within fostering agencies. Notably, The Children Society faced public scrutiny when it came to light that they were automatically dismissing applications from LGBTQ+ foster carers.
The turning point came in 1999 with the release of "Lesbian and Gay Fostering and Adoption: Extraordinary yet Ordinary," a publication that shed light on the strides made since the 1980s. The report underscored the notable shift towards greater openness among LGBTQ+ individuals during the fostering application process. The '90s laid the foundation for a significant transformation in fostering practices, setting the stage for further progress and inclusivity.
Early 2000’s and Beyond:
The early 2000s marked the repeal of Section 28, signifying progress in LGBTQ+ rights. Yet, debates on LGBTQ+ fostering persisted. Support groups tirelessly advocated for a redefinition of family norms. Despite challenges, the number of LGBTQ+ carers grew, and agencies sought guidance from these support groups.
The 2010s saw a shift in discourse, acknowledging the unique benefits LGBTQ+ carers brought to fostering. The legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2014 served as a watershed moment, legitimising same-sex couple families in the eyes of both the law and society. This triumph reshaped perceptions of LGBTQ+ families in foster care and adoption.
Present Day:
In the present day, precise data on the number of LGBTQ+ foster carers in England is not known. However, recent statistics in adoption indicate a positive trend, with 1 in 6 adoptions last year being to LGBTQ+ individuals. This trend underscores the willingness of LGBTQ+ individuals to be carers, emphasising the importance of understanding and supporting this diverse group. We will have to wait until 2025 to learn how many LGBTQ+ foster carers we have in England, which is the year this data will finally begin to be collected.
To foster inclusivity, agencies are urged to actively reach out to the LGBTQ+ community. This involves dispelling myths, using diverse images in promotional materials, and ensuring assessing social workers undergo LGBTQ+ inclusion and unconscious bias training. There is still a long way to go to ensure the fostering sector is free from microaggressions and discriminatory practices, we know from speaking with the community that there is still work to be done to continue to create a truly equitable foster care system for LGBTQ+ people.
Three Circles Fostering's Commitment:
Founded on the principles of equality and inclusion, Three Circles prides itself as a beacon of inclusion in fostering. We commit to diversity as the cornerstone of our organisation. To this end, we:
Are proud to sponsor Proud 2 b Parents (an organisation for LGBT+ families in the North West)
Run a nationwide resource called lgbtyouthincare.com
Have LGBTQ+ inclusion training as mandatory for all staff members within the social work team, including Form F assessors and Panel Members
Collaborated with CoramBAAF on the assessment and support of Trans Adopters and Foster Carers with the publication of Practice Note 69
Host a monthly LGBTQ+ support group get-together
Conclusion:
As we celebrate LGBT History Month, it's essential to reflect on the journey of LGBT fostering in England. Three Circles Fostering's unwavering commitment to inclusivity has played a pivotal role in shaping a more accepting and diverse fostering community. The history of LGBT fostering is not just a testament to progress but a reminder that love knows no bounds, and every child deserves a chance to flourish in a home filled with care and acceptance.
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If our mission to create a nurturing environment for looked after children resonates with you, we invite you to consider becoming a foster carer with Three Circles Fostering. Your decision to open your heart and home can make a lasting impact on a child's life, offering them the stability and support they need to thrive. By joining our fostering community, you become an essential part of the journey toward brighter futures for these remarkable young individuals. To learn more about fostering with Three Circles and how you can make a difference, feel free to reach out and inquire. Together, we can create a world where every child has the opportunity to flourish.