Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride

We felt honoured to take part in the annual LGBTQ+ Brighton Pride Community Parade again this year; members of our team and Foster Carers joined together to celebrate our current LGBTQ+ foster families and urge others to step forward.

Eric Page, of the LGBTQ Workers Forum steering group, said thank you to all involved “for taking the time to share their glory and passions with ours and making our parade not just great to look at, but meaningful and keeping it close to the real reasons of Pride, to build community, to challenge prejudice and to platform our ongoing struggle for  full inclusion and equality”

Clare, Assessing Social Worker for our Fostering Team said “we all had an amazing time at Pride 2019 and it was a privilege to march alongside the LGBTQ+ Workers Forum. The atmosphere was incredible and we hope more LGBTQ+ people will consider joining our fostering community. A big thank you to all involved, including the staff and carers who helped to make our banners. It was a day to be proud of."

Natalie, Assessing Social Worker for our Supported Lodgings Team said “it was a real privilege to be part of the parade this year, the amount of smiling faces and support from the whole community was amazing. It was incredible to be able to share the message of hope and love, because after all, love is love!”

Elle, our Business Support Officer said “I think fostering is about loving unconditionally. I was in awe of the foster carers who came to show how proud they are to foster – you could really feel the energy from them.”

Many LGBTQ+ people still believe they’ll face barriers to becoming a foster carer but this is certainly not the case in Brighton & Hove and we believe that different perspectives and openness to difference is invaluable. Many of our current LGBTQ+ Foster Carers have made a huge difference to local children and we are keen to build upon and grow this success.

Foster Carers Carolyn and Jen said “we are proud to foster with BHCC and proud to have taken part in such an amazing event. It was a great day, we can’t wait for next year!”

Foster Carer Diane, who attended the parade with daughter Baine said “Pride is a REALLY fun way to give a supportive voice to those that can't. Personally I like to show people that I am proud to be a Foster Carer.”

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If you’re thinking of fostering, take the first step today. There are so many children who need support. Call 01273 295444 to speak with a member of our friendly team Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm, complete an online enquiry or e-mail us at fosteringrecruitment@brighton-hove.gov.uk

Alternatively, please join us at one of our upcoming information events. These informal sessions are a chance to meet experienced foster carers, understand the role of fostering and learn about the support you will receive.

Find out more about fostering by downloading our information booklet

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