Since October 2009, clinics are no longer allowed to block fertility treatment for lesbians by referring to a child's 'need for a father'. Instead, same-sex couples will need to demonstrate only that they can offer 'supportive parenting'.
See below for further information about issues featured in My Weird and Wonderful Family:
The Alternative Families Show 2010
Barrie and Tony are key speakers at this year's event.
Stonewall: Pregnant Pause (opens in a new window)
A guide for lesbians on how to get pregnant.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (opens in a new window)
Information for people who are having, or considering, fertility treatment including the law on legal parenthood following fertility treatment in the UK.
Infertility Network UK (opens in a new window)
Supporting those affected by infertility, as well as providing information, practical and emotional support.
Funding for Fertility (opens in a new window) : Information on funding in the different nations of the UK.
Fertility UK (opens in a new window)
National fertility awareness and NFP service, providing comprehensive and objective information on all aspects of fertility awareness.
COTS (opens in a new window)
A UK based, voluntary surrogacy organisation. Potential surrogates and intended parents can become members of COTS and benefit from their support and expertise. Website includes details of IVF clinics willing to help in surrogacy.
National Childbirth Trust (opens in a new window)
Offering information and advice on pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal care for all parents and parents-to-be including those coping with their own disability.
Birth Choice UK (opens in a new window)
Where you choose to have your baby and whom you choose to look after you in labour will affect the type of birth you have and the care you receive. This website explains your options and gives you some information to help you make those choices.
Bliss (opens in a new window)
Providing support for parents of babies born prematurely, offering practical and emotional help. Email: enquiries@bliss.org.uk.
Parentline Plus (opens in a new window)
Offering help and support to anyone in a parenting role.
Helpline: 0808 800 22 22 (lines open 24 hours a day)
Email: parentsupport@parentlineplus.org.uk.
Information on call charges to 08 and 03 numbers:
0800 – Free from BT land line.
0808 – Free from BT land lines and most mobile and other networks.
0845 – Calls cost up to 4p per minute with a max 10p set up charge from a BT land line. Mobile and other network rates may be higher.
0844 – Calls cost up to 5p per minute with a max 10p set up charge from a BT land line. Mobile and other network rates may be higher.
0300 – Calls cost same as standard BT land line.
