New research shows that children adopted by same sex couples are at no disadvantage

In depth research, the first of its kind, has been undertaken by the British Association of Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) to coincide with Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender (LGBT) Adoption and Fostering Week. The study is entitled “Gay, Lesbian and Heterosexual Adoptive Families: Family relationships, child adjustment and adopters’ experiences”.

The research concluded that children adopted by same sex couples do just as well as those adopted by heterosexual couples and that family life and quality of relationships are similar regardless of their parents’ sexual orientation. “There was no evidence” to support speculation that a child’s masculine or feminine tendencies are affected by having parents who are in a same sex relationship.

The experiences of 130 gay, lesbian and heterosexual adoptive families, with children aged 4 to 8, were the subjects of this research and the focus was on the quality of family relationships, how parents cope and how children adjust.

According to BAAF, in the year ending 31^st March 2011, 90% of children were adopted by couples and 10% by single adopters and 3% by same sex couples (either in a civil partnership or not).

The number of children adopted by same sex couples still remains low however this research should hopefully encourage more same sex couples to put themselves forward as potential adopters. The government has set up a new telephone hotline, manned by individuals experienced in the adoption process who will be in a position to provide advice and support in relation to the adoption process. The telephone number is 0300 222 0022.

If you would like advice and or representation in adoption matters please contact the family department on 0116 2554855.