LGBT people urged to help

Monday marks the start of the second annual national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Adoption and Fostering Week.

National groups say if more LGBT people came forward to foster or adopt they could help make up the caring shortfall.

Locally, there are more than 400 looked after children, with adoptive families needed for around 50 of them.

Figures released as part of a national campaign showed Rotherham was one of more than 30 areas of the country where more than 48 children are awaiting adoption.

The council has organised two information events which are open to all. People can find out more about adoption on Tuesday from 6pm to 8pm at Rotherham Holiday Inn, and fostering on Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm at Maltby Leisure Centre.

People can meet carers and those who have adopted, including members of the LGBT community, as well as the council’s Fostering and Adoption team.

Coun Paul Lakin, cabinet member for children and families, said: “Like every other area of the country we’re always on the lookout for more people to provide caring homes for young people who need that support.”