Advice and information

If you’ve decided an SGO is the right option for your kinship family, find out what’s involved in making an application without the involvement of children’s services

Schools have a responsibility towards children and young people in kinship care. Find out how the school should be supporting your child.

If a child or young person you care for is exploring their sexuality or gender identity, here’s how you can feel informed and comfortable to talk to them about it.

Find out what support kinship carers should generally expect from their local authority, and the legal duty they have to all children in your area.

Anxiety is a normal human emotion. But having too much anxiety can cause issues. Here are some practical tips to spot, manage and get support with anxiety.

How your kinship care arrangement affects passport applications for a child’s passport and what documents you need for the passport application.

Find out how your virtual school could support your kinship child, from managing their behaviour to moving schools

Caring for a SEND child is rewarding but can be challenging. It’s important to understand what your family is entitled to so you can make the right choices when choosing a school for your child.

Learn how emotional and mental health issues might affect kinship children. Understand how to discuss them, and recognise the impact of trauma.

Learn more about how to understand and manage challenging behaviour in kinship children you care for.

Learn what contact time with family is and how you can make it a positive experience for a child.

Learn how you can use stories to explore difficult topics like identity and emotional wellbeing within your kinship family.

If you are a kinship carer going to court, know how to prepare and what to expect.

Information for kinship carers on childcare options for children aged 0-16, including nurseries, pre-schools, childminders and nannies.

Benefit support called Bereavement Support Payment, which kinship carers could claim if a partner has died.

Being a kinship carer can be challenging. When a child you care for has a disability or special educational needs, you may need extra support.

Find out about the role of social workers and children's services, and their role in kinship care

What to think about when your kinship child needs to move schools or transition between schools and how to support them

Understand the education, health and care (EHC) plan process and how they can help kinship children with special educational needs.

Stress is a common experience for kinship carers, who often face unique challenges in caring for children who have been through difficult experiences. Here is how to recognise the signs of stress and some practical tips for managing it effectively.

Learn about alcohol and substance abuse - how it can affect kinship families and what to do if your loved one is struggling.