Since late May 2008 the Mathericks have been fully reinstated as foster parents by Somerset County Council. We thank God for this.
On 31st October Christian foster carers Vince and Pauline Matherick won the right to have their personal convictions and conscientious objections recognised by Somerset Social Services. The couple, who were at the centre of national media attention following their refusal to sign an equality policy which promoted homosexuality, were able to sign the policy safe in the knowledge that their beliefs would be respected.
The couple met with Social Services on 31st October 2007 and secured an agreement so that they will not be expected to promote a homosexual lifestyle.
Mr and Mrs Matherick are represented by Paul Diamond (Counsel) and Michael Philips (Solicitor).
Andrea Williams comments, 'This is a significant step forward for Christian freedoms in that the Council has agreed not to force Mr and Mrs Matherick to act against their Christian beliefs. This should be of enormous encouragement to all Christians who want to take up the important role of caring for vulnerable children.'
Since late May 2008 the Mathericks have been fully reinstated as foster parents by Somerset County Council. We thank God for this.
Links
The Daily Telegraph
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/10/24/nfoster124.xml
The Times
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/faith/article2727855.ece
The Daily Mail
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=489285&in_page_id=1770
For further information:
Andrea Minichiello Williams
0771 2591164