Masterclass On Non-Traditional Families Set For 5 December

On Thursday 5 December, the London office of Irwin Mitchell hosts a masterclass on LGBT parenting, set to be delivered by a professional actor, writer and UK champion on the issue.

Arranged by childcare experts Parental Choice for the Irwin Mitchell IM Powered/Modern Life Group, actor writer and LGBT campaigner Charlie Condou will deliver a humorous and personal account on becoming a father and raising children in a non-traditional family setting.

Best known for his role as midwife Marcus Dent in Coronation Street; Charlie and his husband have two children of their own, giving him a personal insight into the issues LGBT families face.

In addition to his professional output, Charlie has written several articles on same sex parenting and contributed to many others, including the introduction to the Eric Rosswood book, Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood: Firsthand Advice, Tips and Stories from Lesbian and Gay Couples.

Charlie will use the seminar to cover the ups and downs of IVF, marriage, co-parenting and how to successfully navigate the work-life balance of a non-traditional family unit. Charlie will also be offering attendees his own insights, tips and experience on the realities of life for LGBT parents.

Speaking ahead of the seminar, Charlie Condou said: “Seminars like this offer scope for a lot of interaction and I’m looking forward to answering people’s questions and offering some advice and reassurance to those people at the start of their own parenting journey based on my experience.

The support of colleagues can be a huge help for new parents juggling lots of new demands. Non-traditional families can face more challenges when making the transition to parenthood, so it’s great to be able to speak in the workplace and offer my take on how firms can support LGBT colleagues. Hopefully my experiences will resonate with people and help them and their children make the most of the happiest time of their lives.”

Elizabeth Paterson, a lawyer at Irwin Mitchell and organiser of the event, said: “We are really grateful to Parental Choice for organising the event and are really looking forward to hearing what Charlie has to say, to parents and those wanting to know more about supporting our LGBT colleagues.

Charlie is uniquely qualified to answer questions on what it means to be an LGBT parent today and his advice will prove invaluable in helping colleagues, by hearing first hand from someone who has been there. The seminar forms a key part of our commitment to diversity and is a valuable addition to the work we do to break down barriers and offer practical support to our colleagues.”