Kinship care support in Wakefield
We are committed to helping children remain within their wider family circles wherever it is safe, appropriate and in their best interests. Kinship care offer children stability and continuity. And we provide a range of support to help families who take on this important role.
What is Kinship care?
Kinship care is when a child lives full-time with a relative, family friend or another trusted adult who is not their parent. This may be an informal arrangement or may involve legal orders such as a Special Guardianship Order (SGO.)
Kinship carers in Wakefield help children to stay connected to family, culture and community.
Support for Kinship carers in Wakefield
Early advice and help
Families thinking about kinship caring usually need support early on. In Wakefield, you can access early advice through:
- Family Rights Group – national advice for families who are considering caring for a relative’s child
- Kinship – provide support, information and training
Local support
Wakefield offers a range of local support including:
- Kinship Care Team – specialist advice and support
- Early Help Hubs – practical and emotional support
- Parenting Support – advice and guidance tailored to carers
- The Mockingbird Family Model accessible depending on need
- Fostering and placement support
What the Kinship Care Team can help with
The Kinship Care team offers:
- Advice on benefits and financial support
- Help with legal matters and signposting
- Support with education issues and navigating schools
- Guidance around contact arrangements with parents
- Links to community support, early help and SEND services
Wakefield has one dedicated Kinship Care Team. They support both kinship carers and special guardians across the district.
Useful links
Useful contacts
Wakefield Kinship Care Team
Telephone: 01924 302160