Civil partnerships @ Fulham Register

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A leading lesbian magazine has used Hammersmith & Fulham Register office as the location for a glamorous civil partnerships photo shoot.

Hammersmith & Fulham Council agreed to the photo session, which will appear in the December issue of G3, after actively promoting the new civil partnerships service both locally and nationally.

Jo Webber, Editor of G3 said, "We had a great day at Fulham Town Hall and it will be an absolutely fantastic venue for civil partnerships as it already is for marriages. We all agreed it is a lovely building and we're sure to spread the word."

Models Laura Steel and Narjara Bueno, said, "We've been together for 17 months and Fulham Town Hall could be the perfect place for our civil partnership next summer. The staff are extremely friendly and knowledgeable and the rooms are also incredibly beautiful."

The change in the law which gives same sex couples similar rights to married heterosexual couples comes into force on December 5. The first couples to register will be able to form a partnership on December 21.

Gay and lesbian couples in Hammersmith & Fulham will be among the first in the country to form civil partnerships as the council offers the new service from 8am on December 21 - the earliest possible time.

Cllr Reg McLaughlin, Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion says, "Civil partnerships will not only  offer lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender couples the opportunity for the same magical 'special day' as heterosexual couples - they are a major step forward for equality. Enshrining the rights of LGBT couples is long overdue and I am proud that this council is at the forefront of offering an enhanced register office service to our residents."

Civil partners will have equal treatment to married couples in a wide range of legal matters including: tax; employment benefits; most state and occupational pensions; tax credits and child support; protection from domestic violence and a range of other issues.

Cllr McLaughlin continues, "Our 'tie the knot in Hammersmith & Fulham' campaign is working really well as we are already fully booked for December 21. From the smallest legal signing, to the largest family gathering and ceremony, our friendly registrars will guide you through everything you need to do to ensure that your special day is enjoyable and successful."

December 4, 2005