CHILDREN'S charity and voluntary adoption agency, Adoption Matters, based in Chester and Warrington, joined the crowds to take part in the 2023 Chester Pride on Saturday, August 19.

Joining the parade, members of the Adoption Matters Chester and Warrington team proudly waved their Pride flags and handed out their very own adoption love heart sweets to the crowds as they celebrated inclusion and diversity at the event's 10th anniversary parade.

Their team was also joined by one of their adoptive families, Mandy and Laura, as they continued their work to spread awareness within the LGBTQ+ community.

Chester and District Standard: Team members from Chester and Warrington took part in the parade on Saturday, August 19.Team members from Chester and Warrington took part in the parade on Saturday, August 19. (Image: Adoption Matters)

Nearly 25 per cent of Adoption Matters approved families in 2021-22 identified as LGBTQ+ and the organisation was recently awarded commended agency status by the national LGBTQ+ adoption and fostering charity New Family Social for their inclusivity and support.

Adoption Matters Chief Executive, Susy White, commented: "We know from experience that people from the LGBTQ+ community often come into adoption with an open mind and resilience that children who have spent time in care really need.

"We welcome enquiries from all communities and are proud that our work within the LGBTQ+ community to raise awareness of adoption as a route to parenthood."

To find out more about LGBTQ+ adoption, visit: www.adoptionmatters.org/proud/.