Support

There are various groups offering support and information specific to the needs of lesbian and gay parents. These are listed below. Additionally, the OPFS office in Edinburgh has a library of relevant books for both children and adults, many of which can be borrowed.

Lesbian Mothers Scotland

Lesbian Mothers Scotland is a network for Lesbian parents, with various groups throughout Scotland. The network offers a quarterly newsletter and information by telephone and email.

Lesbian Mothers Scotland local groups can be reached through the following contacts:

• Edinburgh - Sue Robertson at OPFS (0131-556-3899)
• Glasgow - Glasgow Women's Library (0141-552-8345)
• Aberdeen - Aberdeen Women's Centre (01224-625010)
• other local areas - please contact Sue Robertson at OPFS (0131-556-3899) for information.

All contacts groups are likely to include women who have left heterosexual relationships.

Gay Dads Scotland

Gay Dads Scotland provides information and support for gay dads. Groups meet in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Pink Parents UK

Pink Parents is a UK organisation for lesbian and gay parents. They deal with parenting issues and with issues for people wanting to have children. The group produces a quarterly magazine as well as a wide variety of publications. Pink Parents also offers a telephone help-line service (08701-273274) on Thursday evenings from 7-10 pm. Membership rates are £18 for individuals or groups, or £10 for people on means tested benefits.

Further information:

Civil partnership in Scotland - The Equality Network website for civil partnership in Scotland, the legal way to formalise same-sex relationships, and to get the same rights as married couples.

Stonewall - UK lobbying organisation seeking equality for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals. Website contains comprehensive information on LGB issues, including parenting, as well as contact details for national branches.

Beyond Barriers - an excellent and comprehensive website for the LGBT community in Scotland

UK Gay and Lesbian Families - an internet based group that offers support to gay and lesbian families from all over the UK

Scotsgay Magazine - up-to-date information and links for LGBT community in Scotland