Proud 2 b Parents

🌟 Disability Pride Month 🌟 In July 2023, I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the spine after years of constant pain and reaching a point where walking, driving, and daily activities became a struggle. Over the past year, I've tried various interventions to manage my disability and reduce the pain. Living with an invisible disability is challenging as people often don't recognize the adaptations I make to avoid immediate pain or prevent mobility issues the next day. Balancing self-pride and the desire to not be affected by my hidden disability is a constant juggle. As a parent, I want to shield my children from the less magical aspects of life and my own limitations. Unfortunately, over the last year, I've had to share more about my disability with my children. Seeing the concern on my son's face was not something I wanted to bring into his life, but it's a reality we face, one that may worsen over time. For now, things are stable, and we find little extras to make life manageable, like access passes on our recent trip to Disney, which spared us from long queues and provided more space to enjoy the fireworks. In terms of work, being able to work from home is a blessing. The comfort and flexibility of my home environment support my daily needs. Networking events remain a challenge. I can walk for miles, but I can't stand for long periods, which can make talking to new people difficult especially when I am seated and looking like I am not engaging. I'm determined to find a way to better navigate these events to showcase the opportunities that working with Proud 2 b Parents can bring to corporates, employers, customers, and services. But for now, if you would like to reach out and start a conversation about the inclusion or support of LGBT parents/ carers and their children, please do. I would love to have a digital chat with you and see how we can collaborate.

🌈 On Thursday 25th April 2024 we have Individual bookable training available on Raising awareness and understanding the needs of LGBT Parents/ Carers. Trauma can significantly impact how individuals approach services and relationships. In the LGBT community, this is a prevalent issue worldwide, with research indicating a higher likelihood of experiencing trauma, mental and physical health issues, and discrimination. Proud 2 b Parents (P2bP) recognise the need for training goes beyond traditional diversity training, offering a comprehensive package that addresses the unique challenges faced by LGBT parents and carers. Join us for this transformative training, developing a world where all can embrace parenthood with confidence, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. https://lnkd.in/e5QeNYGF Topics that will be covered include:- Introduction to P2bP: Explore what sets P2bP apart from other organisations. in supporting Routes to Parenthood: Navigate diverse options for LGBT individuals considering parenthood, including adoption and surrogacy. Parenting Journey: Understand the unique aspects of the LGBT parenting experience, covering both challenges and rewards. Research Insights: Discover key research findings that contribute to a deeper understanding of LGBT parenting. Lived Experience: Hear real-life stories from the community, providing valuable insights and inspiration. Microaggressions and Bias: Recognise and address microaggressions and unconscious biases faced by the LGBT community. LGBT Trauma: Explore unique challenges and traumas, focusing on creating safe and supportive spaces. Impact on Parenthood Choices: Understand how trauma may influence decisions related to parenthood. Additional Challenges: Highlight and address extra hurdles faced by LGBTQ parents, including legal considerations. Training and Consultancy Overview: Q&A Session:

🌈 Thanks to the secure funding we received late last year, our organisation has been able to expand our reach and take on additional roles and responsibilities. This newfound stability has given us the precious gift of time 🕰 to focus on advancing the visibility and awareness of LGBT parents/carers on a national level, ensuring that we're working tirelessly to support meaningful change. Here's a glimpse into some of the groups, networks, and forums we're now actively involved in: The LGBT Health Partnership - Equity Rep Steering Group National Adoption Recruitment Programme Board Ambition Two - Focusing on Diversity LGBTQ Health Network Meeting for Nursing and Midwifery Academics: Community Health Equity Manchester CoramBAAF Fostering Advisory Committee Adoption Counts, Adoption Voice Meeting - Adoption UK Adoption Counts Operational Team Meeting CoramBAAF Fostering Practice Forum Adoption Reference Group - Department of Health and Education Adoption Counts - Independent Panel Member Trafford Local Authority Foster Agency - Independent Panel Member They Call Me Dad - Best Beginnings Project Research Project Cardiff OBS & Egality Maternity Voice Partnership, St Mary's Oxford Road and Stepping Hill What other forums, networks and/or steering groups should we be involved in? We're incredibly grateful for this opportunity to make a significant impact and drive positive change within these critical spheres. Stay tuned as we continue to advocate for and support LGBT parents/carers across the nation! 🏳️🌈✨ #LGBT #Visibility #Awareness #Proud2bParents #CommunitySupport #Diversity #Inclusion #FundingSuccess

Read our latest Blog from Adoption Counts 🌈 As part of LGBT Adoption and Fostering week 🌈 , they celebrate the uniqueness of every individual and are proud to welcome the vibrant spectrum of families that make up our diverse society. As an adoption agency, their mission is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a loving and supportive home. They proudly embrace the principles of equality and inclusion, working to create an environment where LGBTQ individuals and couples can embark on the fulfilling journey to parenthood through adoption. https://lnkd.in/eX5SaYRu

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