Advice and information

Find out more about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) including what it is, how it can present itself and how to support children in your care who might have (or have been diagnosed with) it. Learn about the links between FASD, child understanding and behaviour.

Information on private foster care, including who can be a private foster carer, how you become one, and support you can get.

Tools and techniques to help the child you care for to learn how to self-soothe and regulate their emotions in a healthy way.

Information on help available with school costs, including who might get help with school uniform costs and free school meals.

This page explores how to recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma, as well as practical tips for supporting children in kinship care.

We know there’s a lot to take in when you’re preparing to become a kinship carer. That’s why we’ve put together information and advice to help you get ready.

Childcare costs can be expensive. As a kinship carer, you may be entitled to financial support to help cover the cost of childcare.

Find out about applying for parental responsibility and what it means for you

How to plan and organise contact time with family to reduce stress and make it a positive experience for the child.

This page explains how to end an SGO if the child’s parents have made significant changes to their lives, and you all agree it’s in the best interests of the child they go back to live with them.

Information and advice for kinship carers on adoption, how to adopt a child, alternatives to adoption and support available.

Learn how the local authority carries out a special guardian assessment and how to get support through the process.

Advice on employment rights for kinship carers who need time off work, including flexible working, time for dependants and parental leave.

Information on financial support and benefits available for private foster carers to help pay for the cost of caring for a child.

If you are a kinship carer to a 16- or 17-year-old, find out how they might be able to claim Universal Credit.

Find out about financial support for young people in education, including a bursary for college students, university student finance and EMA in Wales.

Find out what to do if you are worried about a child's safety or welfare.

Understand what the support plan is, what you should ask for and how to advocate for your family's needs throughout the process.

Anger is a normal, healthy emotion that everyone has. But sometimes anger can seem unkind, aggressive and even frightening. Here are some practical tips to spot, manage and get support with anger issues.

Pension Credit is an extra amount paid by the government to top up your living costs if you’re on a low income and over State Pension age.

Find out what help is available to help you cope with rising energy bills.