In our latest edition of the Myth Busters series, we focus on debunking some common misconceptions that LGBTQ+ people might have around fostering. Many people in the LGBTQ+ community are unsure whether they can foster children in Ireland, often believing outdated myths that prevent them from taking the next step toward becoming a foster parent. Let’s break down some of these myths and reveal the truth about fostering as an LGBTQ+ individual or couple.
Fact: LGBTQ+ individuals and couples are absolutely allowed to foster children in Ireland. What children need most is a loving, secure, and safe environment where they can thrive. As long as you meet the necessary criteria, your application is welcome, regardless of your sexual orientation or gender identity.
Fact: Fostering is needed for children of all ages, from newborns right the way up to 18-year-olds and beyond. While there are many teenagers in care, there are also a lot of requests right now for foster carers to care for babies and younger children, including unborn and newborn babies.
Fact: While it's true that the goal of fostering in Ireland is to reunite children with their families, this isn't always what transpires. Many children remain in long-term care until they reach independence. Foster carers play a vital role in providing stability and care for children throughout their journey, and there is a significant need for carers who can commit to long-term care.
Fact: Foster carers can work, but it's important to be realistic about the flexibility and availability you have. It’s crucial to consider how your job commitments will align with the needs of a child in care. Many foster carers balance work and fostering successfully by ensuring they can provide the time and attention needed.
Fact: The LGBTQ+ community is well-represented in fostering. There are many LGBTQ+ carers who are either single or a same-sex couple, are male, female or non-binary, or are transgender – there's space for carers across the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community.
If they meet our basic criteria for foster carers, LGBTQ+ individuals and couples are encouraged to apply and help provide nurturing environments for vulnerable children.
There, we've busted some more myths! If you want to check out our previous Myth Buster videos, you can view them here, here and here. The truth is clear: fostering is open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. If you’ve ever considered fostering but were unsure whether it was right for you as an LGBTQ+ individual or couple, now is the time to take the next step.
Know someone in the LGBTQ+ community who might be a great foster carer? Share this post with them! Together, we can help spread the word and encourage more people to provide safe, loving homes to children who need them.
Reach out for any questions and enquiries. A member of our fostering team will get back to you as soon as possible.
