Kirklees Council

11/15/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/15/2023 02:19

A huge thanks to Kirklees kinship carers

Carers from across Kirklees were welcomed to a special event celebrating their amazing support for children.

Kinship carers are often vital in the lives of young people who, for a variety of reasons, are unable to live with their parents.

Kinship Care is when children are being raised by grandparents, other family members or adults with whom they have a family-like relationship, such as godparents or close friends.

We support kinship children and families by providing help and advice on important things like finance, training, therapeutic support and family time with birth families. We also offer support groups for children and carers.

To honour the difference made by these special people, the event brought together carers to meet each other, share their stories and shine a light on the fantastic difference they make in young lives.

During the summer, we also organised a 'play in the park' day where carers and children had a chance to make new friends.

Cllr Viv Kendrick, Cabinet member for Children, said:

"It's so important that we say thank you to our kinship carers and recognise their crucial role in supporting children and young people.

"They often step in at a very difficult time in a child's life, giving care and stability when it's needed the most.

"Kinship care is an opportunity for children to feel loved and valued by adults with whom they already have a close connection.

"These carers can be unsung heroes in our communities. They open up their homes in a selfless way so that vulnerable children are able to lead happier and more settled lives."

If you are in a kinship care arrangement and have not contacted the council, please get in touch to find out how we can help. Email [email protected]