Preparatory workshops for special guardians, ideally before they are granted the order.
We are currently working with local authorities in Barking & Dagenham, Havering, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, East Riding, Hull, North East Lincolnshire, North Yorkshire, York (City of), Newcastle and Surrey. If you work for one of these areas, you can refer a kinship carer below.
What is Kinship Ready?
Many kinship carers are granted a Special Guardianship Order for the child. We know from experience and our research that before and just after the order is granted can be the most challenging and daunting time for special guardians. We also know that the right support during this period can have a positive impact for the family.
Kinship Ready is our preparatory workshop series for special guardians. The workshops are for those who:
- have had a viability assessment for a Special Guardianship Order but have not yet been granted the order
- are considering a Special Guardianship Order
- have been recently been granted, a Special Guardianship Order.
The workshop content has been developed specifically for special guardians by special guardians, in collaboration with social workers and academic researchers. It is delivered by special guardians in partnership with local authorities, with the aim to raise awareness of what is involved when taking on the role of a special guardian. Workshops include topics such as:
- contact
- trauma and attachment
- support plans
- overview of legal orders
- where to go for help and support
Who is Kinship Ready for?
Kinship Ready is for any prospective or current special guardian, ideally once they have had an initial viability assessment. The local authority teams make a referral direct to us. It can also be for special guardians who have had the order for some time but who could benefit from some recap of support available and key issues that may be relevant to them. It is also an opportunity for them to meet with other special guardians.
What difference does it make?
How do I get Kinship Ready in my area?
Kinship Ready is available for commissioning. For more information please contact commissions@kinship.org.uk
Other support we offer
The Kinship Care Guide for England contains everything kinship carers need to know. Bulk order for kinship carers in your local authority and receive a 15% discount.

Join our professionals network
Join our Kinship Care Professionals Network to stay up-to-date with news from the world of kinship care, find out about new developments and services, and the latest events and research reports.

Free advice service
All kinship carers, regardless of legal order, can access our free, specialist advice service – online, via email or over the phone.

Kinship community
All kinship carers can join our free community where they can take part in surveys and campaigns, discuss issues that affect them, attend events, share tips and advice, and hear about discounts, local events, days out and much more.