Across the UK, LGBTQ+ individuals and couples are increasingly stepping into vital roles as adoptive and foster parents—offering stable, loving homes to children in need. During LGBTQ+ Adoption and Fostering Week, advocates are encouraging more members of the LGBTQ+ community to consider this rewarding path.
Led by New Family Social and supported in Wales by both the National Adoption Service for Wales and Foster Wales, the campaign seeks to dispel lingering myths and highlight the life-changing impact of fostering and adoption.
A Growing Movement of Love and Support
According to recent Welsh government data, 25% of adoptions in Wales now involve same-sex couples—up from just 10% in 2012. In fostering, LGBTQ+ households have increased by 23% in the past year. In England, one in five adoptions were made possible by same-sex couples, reports New Family Social.
Real Stories from LGBTQ+ Parents
Emma (46) and Joanna Johnstone (49), both teachers in Carmarthenshire, began fostering in early 2023. Joanna already had biological children, but Emma—who longed to experience motherhood—found fulfillment through their shared journey into foster care.
“It’s undeniably challenging, yet incredibly fulfilling,” says Joanna. “The chance to help a child and support families in crisis is incredibly meaningful.”
The couple emphasizes that fostering is not just about the child—it’s about building meaningful connections and contributing to a healthier society.
Meanwhile in Rhondda Valley, South Wales, Josh Michaux-Trask (39) and Martin Michaux-Trask (42) adopted their son in 2020 through Western Bay Adoption Service, after meeting the adoption team at Pride Cymru the year prior.
“As a gay man, I never imagined becoming a parent,” Martin reflects, “but meeting Josh changed everything.”
Josh, who grew up during the Section 28 era, recalls how traditional laws made LGBTQ+ family life seem out of reach. But today, he and Martin are proud parents to their spirited four-year-old son—a boy they lovingly call “a little rascal.”
Their story shows how adoption can strengthen relationships, break outdated stereotypes, and foster greater inclusion.
Breaking Barriers, Building Families
Despite their positive experience, Josh and Martin acknowledge that traditional gender roles still present challenges for male same-sex couples. Yet, the acceptance they’ve received from their local community shows that progress is real—and ongoing.
Suzanne Griffiths, director of the National Adoption Service for Wales, stresses the need for more diverse adopters and foster carers.
“We need people from all walks of life,” she says. “LGBTQ+ individuals bring empathy, resilience, and patience—qualities essential to child care.”
The Message is Clear: You Can Do This
Griffiths encourages anyone curious about fostering or adoption to reach out to their local agency. Whether for short-term fostering or permanent adoption, the impact of providing a child with a safe, loving home is immeasurable.
Past adopters have shared how the experience transformed their lives—proving that family isn’t defined by biology, but by love, commitment, and care.
