A FOSTER agency is urging gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) single people and couples in Stourbridge to consider becoming foster carers.

Foster Care Associates (FCA) has put the call out ahead of LGBT Adoption and Fostering Week, taking place between March 6 and 12, which reinforces the positive contribution LGBT foster carers make helping children and young people.

Stourbridge residents Steve Turner and Richard Beard have been foster carers with FCA for the past 18 months, and said they would not have their life any other way.

Steve, who has worked for many years with homelessness support organisations, noticed the FCA regional office on his daily commute and, together with Richard, decided to enquire about the application process to foster.

They now have two boys with them on long term placements, and although Steve continues to do some voluntary work, he has changed careers to become the primary foster carer, while Richard is a full-time support worker helping young people into education and employment.

Steve said: “Richard and I firmly believe that every child has the right to be brought up in a loving family environment and we’ve seen first-hand, through our experiences with the YMCA, how long periods in residential care can sometimes have a detrimental impact in later life.

“It’s great to spend time with young people and watch them achieve and develop. It’s also very humbling to watch the positive changes in them as they settle into family life.”

The couple have been grateful for the support they have received from other foster families in the local area and the team at FCA.

Steve said: “You need a strong support network. We’ve made great friends at the support groups and get plenty of advice and help from FCA – they are always at the end of the phone.

“There are challenges along the way and you have to utilise the support that’s available.”

Both Steve and Richard admit that fostering has changed their lives dramatically, but in very positive ways. “We make sure we sit down every evening to share meals together and are really enjoying family life with the boys,” Steve added. “For us, fostering is the best job you could ever have.”

For more information on becoming a foster carer with FCA call 0800 022 4330 or visit www.thefca.co.uk, or for more on LGBT Adoption & Fostering Week visit www.lgbtadoptfosterweek.org.uk