The Queer Family Podcast

From Foster to Forever: A Gay Dad's Journey Through UK Adoption


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Jaimie sits down with Liam—a Scottish-born, England-based gay dad—who shares the winding road he and his husband took to adopt their daughter through the UK’s foster-to-adopt system. From intense evaluations to surprise newborn pick-up calls, this story is filled with love, bureaucracy, and a whole lot of intention.

You’ll hear how growing up under Section 28 shaped Liam’s identity, how he and his husband made the decision to adopt, and why they ultimately said yes to early permanence—despite the risks. It’s a moving, insightful story that shows just how badass LGBTQIA+ parents are.

🚨 Plus, Jaimie shares a personal update on her wife’s chemotherapy journey and why now is the time to secure those second-parent adoptions if you're in the U.S. 🚨

🏳️‍🌈 Thanks to our sponsor California Cryobank!

Thinking of growing your queer family? Use code LOVEISLOVE at cryobank.com for a FREE Level 2 subscription to their donor catalog!

💡 Interested in advertising? Check out our sponsor packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🎧 Loved this episode?

Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and help keep these stories alive!

🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways

  • (00:01:30) Growing up gay under Section 28 in Scotland
  • (00:08:15) Jaimie welcomes Liam
  • (00:16:00) Why intention is central to queer parenting
  • (00:23:35) “The world’s worst game show”: Deciding what you’re equipped to handle in a child
  • (00:33:55) Foster-to-adopt in the UK: what it is and why Liam and his husband chose it
  • (00:47:40) How a paperwork technicality delayed their adoption by 6 months
  • (01:00:50) Why Liam and his husband are choosing to be a one-child family—for now

👨‍👨‍👧 About the Guest

Liam is a Scottish-born gay dad living in the north of England with his husband and daughter. His story offers a rare and honest look at the UK’s foster-to-adopt process, shedding light on the emotional and bureaucratic hurdles many queer parents face—and the deep joy that follows.

🔗 Resources Mentioned

  • California Cryobank – Use code: LOVEISLOVE
  • Gaytriarchs Podcast

💬 What resonated most with you?

Drop a comment, DM us, or email [email protected]—we love hearing your stories!


📲 Let’s Connect!

Find us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast

📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube

📖 Order the If These Ovaries Could Talk book on Amazon, IndieBound, or Audible


🎶 Edited by: Jerson Barajas

🎵 Theme Song by: Tiffany Topol

🎨 Logo by: Daneen Stevenato

🛍️ Shop merch here

📜 Full transcript & episode info available on our website

✊🏽 Take Action

  • Secure your parental rights with a second-parent adoption
  • Support foster youth and adoptive families
  • Vote, donate, and advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights

📢 Because representation matters—and queer families aren’t going anywhere.

History is watching. What we do now matters.

The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a trusted professional for your specific situation!



Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-queer-family-podcast/exclusive-content

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