Lyn and Shelley from Arnold have been Nottinghamshire County Council foster carers for more than 35 years. Together, they have provided a loving home for over 100 children from babies to teenagers.

Lyn said;

“We started fostering because we wanted to help children feel loved and safe. It’s like being a big family, where everyone is welcome.”

One of the couple’s favourite memories is taking a child to the seaside for the first time.

“Seeing their excitement when they felt the sand and saw the sea was magical,” said Lyn.

Shelley added, “Even small things, like giving a child a Christmas present or a party dress, can mean the world to them. It shows them they matter.”

Lyn and Shelley have stayed close to many of the children they fostered, and some even see them as grandparents now.

“It’s so special to know we’ve made a difference,” Shelley said.

Jake and Oli, a same sex couple who adopted two dual heritage children with additional needs through Adoption East Midlands, also shared their experience.

They said:

“The adoption process is certainly a rollercoaster ride filled with lots of different emotions. But being parents to our boys is truly amazing and rewarding - we wouldn’t change it for the world. For anyone considering adoption, I would say, just be open minded and take your time. It’s definitely worth it.

“We would certainly recommend adoption through Adoption East Midlands. They really get to know you as individuals, which means they tailor support to meet yours and your children’s needs”.

Fostering and adoption are open to everyone, regardless of gender, sexuality, background, or family structure. Single mums, single dads, same-sex couples, and blended families can all provide the loving and safe environment needed to make a life-changing impact on a child’s future.

Spokes person for Foster for East Midlands, Councillor Tracey Taylor, Cabinet Member for Children and Families at Nottinghamshire County Council, said,

There are many amazing people across the East Midlands who have provided a safe, loving home by adopting or fostering. These individuals play such a vital role in supporting vulnerable local children and young people. I want to express my sincere thanks to them all for their incredible impact.

But there are also many local children who still need a stable, family home in their area. More foster carers and adopters are always needed to ensure that these children also have that opportunity to thrive.

Both Adoption East Midlands and Foster For East Midlands hold regular information events for anyone who wants to find out more. You will be able to ask questions and meet some of the people who have fostered or adopted to hear their stories.

We welcome foster carers and adopters from all backgrounds, including those from the LGBT+ community, and encourage you to get in touch to find out how our friendly teams could support you on your journey.

LGBT+ Adoption & Fostering Week is a campaign led by New Family Social seeking to dispel myths around eligibility and promote support for LGBT+ people considering these roles. Nottinghamshire County Council is part of Adoption East Midlands and Foster For East Midlands, both of whom welcome LGBT+ foster carers and adopters.

Adoption East Midlands and Foster For East Midlands are holding a joint information event, for anyone interested in either adoption or fostering, on Tuesday 4 March, 6pm to 9pm, at Derbyshire LGBT+, 25 Curzon Street, Derby, DE1 1LH. To register for your free place, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events.

For more upcoming adoption information events, visit adoptioneastmidlands.org.uk/events.

For more upcoming fostering information events, visit fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk/events.

To find out more about adoption, contact Adoption East Midlands. Call 0115 804 4567 or visit the website at adoptioneastmidlands.org.uk to learn more.

To take the first steps towards fostering, contact Foster for East Midlands. Call 03033 132 950 or visit the website at fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk to learn more.