Gay and Lesbian parents welcome to adopt in Halton (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Gay and Lesbian parents welcome to adopt in Halton

7:30am Thursday 28th February 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

THE search is on to find families in Halton willing to give children a loving home.

Being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender does not stop you from adopting or fostering, says Halton Council.

There is a real shortage of both adopters and foster carers and more people across all communities are needed to come forward.

Cllr Ged Philbin, board member for chidlren, young people and families, said: "Many people still believe being gay or lesbian, whether they are single or in a same sex relationship is a barrier to adopting or fostering, but this is just a myth."

Halton Adoption and Fostering Service will be supporting The National Gay Wedding Show in Liverpool, on Sunday, March 3, a celebration of marriage for all couples regardless of their sexuality.

It has been set up to support equality throughout the wedding market, creating an experience for anyone who is getting married, whether they are straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender fostering week runs from March 4-10.

If you are thinking about adoption or fostering, it could be the most fulfilling, surprising and challenging thing you have ever done.

For further details, visit www.halton.gov.uk/adoption or www.foster4halton.co.uk or call 0800 195 3175.