If you're considering starting a kinship peer support group, or you already run one, we have resources that can help.
Kinship Group Network
Do you run a group for kinship carers? Join the Kinship Group Network and connect with other kinship carers who run groups to ask questions, share experiences and help solve problems, or find useful information and learn skills to benefit you and your group.
Peer support library
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What is the Kinship Group Network?
The Kinship Group Network offers free support and resources to kinship carers who run peer support groups.
If you run a kinship peer support group, join the network to connect with other group leaders to ask questions, share experiences and help solve problems.
What can the Kinship Group Network offer me and my group?
We can offer you support, information and a sense of community to you and your group.
Support
- a member of Kinship staff to provide support and guidance when you need it – someone to call and talk through a group situation or challenge you might be facing
- use of Kinship branding and the “part of the Kinship Group Network” logo
- use of promotional materials for your group, such as templates for posters and flyers
Information
- access to excellent training led by the Kinship team on subjects including safeguarding, boundaries and group activities
- access to our online peer support library, full of tips, practical tools and real-life examples to help you set up and run your kinship group
- information, advice and signposting to other Kinship services
Community
- access to regular support and networking opportunities
- invitations to join Kinship activities and offers, like Kinship Care Week activities, campaigning events or opportunities to get involved with research
- advice on how to grow your group and reach other kinship carers, as well as tips on contacting local authorities, schools and community networks
What does Kinship ask of me and my group?
- a contact person for your group – a name, phone number, or email which will be listed on Kinship’s website so new kinship carers can join or find out more
- details of when and where you meet/plan to meet
- you get involved in the Kinship Group Network meetings or events whenever you can
How do I join the Kinship Group Network?
If your group is already listed on the Kinship website
If your group is listed on our website, then you don’t need to do anything. The person listed on the group details will be receiving invitations and updates from us. If your group is listed but you’re not receiving anything from us, please contact peersupport@kinship.org.uk. If you also support this group and would like to be involved, please ask your nominated person to email us.
See if your group is listed on our website.
If your group isn’t already listed on the Kinship website
If your group isn’t listed on our website, then all you need to do is register your group details to list your group on our website. We’ll aim to be in touch within 2 weeks after you’ve completed the form to check the details are correct. We’ll then list your group on our website, so that other kinship carers can find out about it and come along. And you’ll start receiving invitations and updates from us.
See other related content
Peer support groups are a great way to meet other kinship carers, share your experiences and exchange advice. Find your nearest group.
Becoming a kinship carer can be overwhelming and there’s a lot of information to take in. Whether you are new to kinship care, already caring for a child or supporting a family member or friend, we’re here to help. Find out more about the support and advice we can offer.
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