Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity in Fostering Eligibility

Fostering is a vital part of the child‑care system in the United Kingdom. It offers children a safe and stable home while they wait for a permanent placement. In recent years the focus has broadened to ensure that foster carers of all sexual orientations and gender identities can participate fully. This article explains how the law protects these carers, the benefits and responsibilities of fostering, and how you can apply in Manchester.

Understanding Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Fostering

What is fostering?

Fostering is a temporary arrangement where a child lives with a carer who provides care, support and a nurturing environment. Foster carers are usually volunteers, but they receive training and a financial allowance that covers the child’s needs.

Who benefits from fostering?

Children who have been removed from their families for safety or welfare reasons, and the families who are looking for a suitable long‑term solution. Foster carers, in turn, gain the satisfaction of making a real difference to a child’s life.

Benefits for Families and Children

Positive outcomes for children

Studies show that children in foster care often experience improved emotional well‑being, better educational attainment and higher rates of successful permanency outcomes.

Rewards for foster carers

Carers enjoy a sense of purpose, the chance to develop new skills, and the support of a professional network. The allowance and training also provide practical benefits.

Legal Framework and Eligibility

Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act protects foster carers from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Local authorities and independent agencies must treat all applicants fairly, using the same criteria regardless of identity.

No blanket exclusions

There are no statutory exclusions for LGBTQ+ carers. Eligibility is assessed on the basis of the child’s needs and the carer’s suitability, not on personal characteristics.

Local authority guidance

Manchester City Council’s fostering policy states that “all applicants are considered on a case‑by‑case basis, with no discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity.” This aligns with national policy set by the Department for Education.

The Assessment Journey

Initial enquiry

Once you express interest, you will receive an information pack. The pack explains the process, the support available and the expectations.

Pre‑assessment interview

During this interview, a social worker will discuss your background, motivations, and any concerns you might have. They will also clarify that your sexual orientation or gender identity will not be a barrier.

Home visit and background checks

Professional background checks (police, child protection, and health) are standard. These checks apply equally to all applicants, ensuring the safety of the child.

Decision and placement

After the assessment, the local authority or agency will decide whether to offer a placement. The decision is based on the child’s needs and the carer’s suitability.

Training, Supervision and Ongoing Support

Mandatory training

All new foster carers must complete initial training covering child welfare, safeguarding, first aid and family dynamics. This training is free and available through Manchester’s fostering network.

Regular supervision

Monthly supervision sessions with a social worker help carers reflect on their experiences, discuss challenges and receive guidance.

Peer support groups

Local foster carer groups, including LGBTQ+ specific networks, provide a space to share experiences and coping strategies.

Financial Considerations

Allowance structure

According to official UK fostering guidance and local authority policies, the allowance covers the child’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, and education. The amount is based on the child’s age, the carer’s circumstances, and the type of placement (short‑term, long‑term, or therapeutic).

Additional payments

Carers may also receive payments for travel, holidays and specialist equipment. These are negotiated with the local authority or agency and are not tied to the carer’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

Applying for a Placement in Manchester

Step 1: Contact Manchester City Council

Visit the council’s fostering page or call the dedicated helpline. You can also use the How to become a foster carer in England step‑by‑step guide for detailed instructions.

Step 2: Complete the application form

The form requires personal details, employment history and references. Be honest and thorough – this is the first impression you will give.

Step 3: Attend an information session

These sessions explain the responsibilities, the support structure and the expectations for both carers and children.

Step 4: Undergo assessment

Follow the assessment journey described earlier. Remember that Manchester’s policy explicitly states that sexual orientation and gender identity are not criteria for exclusion.

Step 5: Receive your placement offer

Once you pass assessment, you will receive a formal offer. You can accept or decline; if you decline, you may still be considered for future placements.

Local Agencies and Nearby Areas

Manchester Fostering Network

This network includes several independent agencies that collaborate with the council. They offer placements across Manchester and surrounding areas such as Salford, Oldham and Bolton.

Independent fostering agencies

Agencies like Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency provide specialised support for LGBTQ+ carers, including peer mentorship.

Community support

Local charities, such as Manchester Pride, sometimes partner with fostering agencies to raise awareness and recruit diverse carers.

Realistic Expectations and Common Challenges

Managing expectations

Fostering is rewarding but also demanding. Children may have complex emotional needs, and the carer’s role extends beyond basic caregiving.

Potential challenges

• Balancing work and fostering responsibilities.
• Dealing with stigma or misunderstanding from neighbours.
• Ensuring the child’s cultural or religious needs are respected.

Strategies for success

Utilise the supervision and peer support available. Keep open communication with the social worker and be proactive in seeking help when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the legal protections for LGBTQ+ foster carers?

Under the Equality Act 2010, foster carers cannot be discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Local authorities must treat all applicants equally.

Do LGBTQ+ foster carers receive the same allowance as others?

Yes. Allowances are calculated based on the child’s needs and the type of placement, not on the carer’s identity.

Can I foster a child who is also LGBTQ+?

Absolutely. The child’s sexual orientation or gender identity is not a factor in placement decisions; suitability and safety are the priorities.

How do I find an agency that supports LGBTQ+ carers in Manchester?

Contact Manchester Fostering Network or refer to the Local Authority vs Independent Fostering Agency guide for agencies that offer inclusive support.

Will my sexual orientation affect the home visit?

No. Home visits focus on the suitability of the environment for the child and the carer’s ability to provide safe and nurturing care.