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Peterborough Kinship Care Group Coffee Morning

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This year the local authority Kinship Assessment Team suggested celebrating Kinship Care Week with our group. (There were 16 kinship carers, not all of whom are in the photo.) The team came with cakes and we added ours! We were joined by an Education Adviser from the Virtual School and our MP, Sam Carling. Sam and Peterborough's other MP, Andrew Pakes, are very supportive of kinship care. It was a happy occasion and reflected the growing working together with Children's Social Care. Our group are now busy preparing for the children's Christmas Party, always very well supported.

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At a time when our lives were supposed to be winding down we suddenly had a new born baby. It took some time to adjust but these last 2 years, you my darling Grandaughter are our joy, our laughter and our everything. We love to see the world through your tiny eyes, full of wonder and fascination, you make everyday special.

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This well written article is about myself and my niece for #kinshipcareweek

Thank you Family Action and Family Action South Tees Perinatal Support Service for all of your guidance and love x

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I’d do it all again, she’s worth it – a kinship care story

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When Sarah took on full-time care of her newborn niece she wasn’t prepared. Family Action helped support her in her new kinship care role.

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Kinship peer support group leaders celebrate with Professor Green

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Kinship peer support group leaders celebrate with Professor Green

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Kinship carers from the North East celebrate with Joe Fishburn and his grandmother Christine

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Kinship carers from the North East celebrate with Joe Fishburn and his grandmother Christine

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Kinship carers celebrate with Munira Wilson MP

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Kinship carers celebrate with Munira Wilson MP

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Kinship carers celebrate with children's minister Josh MacAlister MP

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Kinship carers celebrate with children's minister Josh MacAlister MP

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Joe Fishburn and his grandmother Christine's message to kinship carers

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Joe Fishburn and his grandmother Christine's message to kinship carers

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Kinship carers meet Kinship Ambassador Jahnine Davis

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Kinship carers meet Kinship Ambassador Jahnine Davis

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Andi Oliver's message to kinship families

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Andi Oliver's message to kinship families

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Davina McCall's message to kinship families

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Davina McCall's message to kinship families

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We celebrated kinship care week by holding a bingo morning with tea and homemade treats. Our group on the Isle of Sheppey had been running for 20 years. What a truly inspiring bunch we are!

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Kinship's Handle With Care report is a powerful reminder of the strength and sacrifice shown by kinship carers across the country. It’s unacceptable that so many families continue to face financial hardship, poor housing, and inadequate support. Yet the resilience of kinship carers shines through. I stand firmly with Kinship and all kinship families in calling for urgent reform, fair funding, and proper recognition. You deserve better—and I’ll continue to fight for the changes you need.
In solidarity.

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Thanks to all our kinship carers in Stockport, was great to see you all the tea party on Tuesday and our kinship team enjoyed celebrating with you all.

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Our amazing Stockport kinship carers were treated to a tea party on Tuesday during Kinship Week. We all had a fantastic time spreading the word about what is available for kinship carers.

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Being a Kinship carer wasn't something I planned, it was something I became, Out of love. Out of necessity. Out of that deep knowing that family, when possible, should never be broken beyond repair.

I didn't step into the role to be a parent or a saviour. I just wanted my little brother to have what we both needed most: stability, belonging, family and love that wouldn't give up.

There were hard days and quiet nights where it all felt too heavy, but love kept showing up. Again and again.

Seeing you now Liam, thriving, and reflecting during #KinshipCareWeek, fills me with pride that words can barely hold. Because I didn't just raise him... we helped raise each other.

Kinship care is layered, with grief and healing, laughter, reunification, struggles both systemically and emotionally, but it's also one of the most humbling, beautiful roles I've ever held.

Here's to love that steps in, shows up, and stays.💛✨️💫

#KinshipCareWeek25 #KinshipCare #FamilyMatters #CareExperienced #ToLoveIsToAct #RelationalActivist #LivedExperience #BrotherILoveYa #Proud #FamilyConnections

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In May 2024 we lost our daughter very suddenly and unexpectedly. We instantly took over the care of our then 3 year old Granddaughter. She has helped us cope with our loss and certainly keeps us on our toes. We are still waiting for a final decision on a SGO. We are also awaiting an autism assessment. We see our daughter in Freya everyday, whether it's a look. Turn of phrase or mannerisms. She is so strong and copes wonderfully. We have lots of tears, laughter and cuddles. We also have support from our other children and our Dad. Great Grandad does the school run everyday.

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my niece is 3 now had her from birth

It wasn't how I planned my retirement but wouldn't change it for the world

It's the most rewarding thing I have every done.To see her grow from a baby into a little girl .Everyday she feels me with love.I am so proud of her

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As we approach Kinship Week 2025, I felt I would put pen to paper and explain just what Kinship Care is.

If you find yourself being asked, out of the blue in many cases, to take a relative’s child into your home and bring them up.  This is when you become a Kinship Carer.

This is happening all over the country every day and this is when the support should begin, but sadly it does not.

In most cases you will be more concerned about your new child/ren; Like where will they sleep? how do I get them to school every day? who do I inform? Doctors, dentists? These questions usually come to mind when you have said goodbye to the social workers, sat down with a cup of tea and realise you are by yourself.

There is help, if you are lucky, you will have been told about Kinship.org.uk

They are invaluable to you and can answer many of your questions.  They can tell you about a Kinship Group in your area where you can meet other people who have been through what you are struggling with and can share how they got through it. They also stop the feeling of being alone.

Kinship Care Week is from 6th to 12th October and this year we are spreading the word about what is available for Kinship Carers.

So please talk to kinship carers and ask if they have been told about Kinship.org.uk and Kingship Compass.

It amazes me how many people have not heard of Kinship.

It also amazes me how many people do not realise they are kinship carers.

And it amazes me how many Local Authorities do not tell their new carers about kinship.

I run a group of kinship carers who meet the 3rd Monday of the month at Greenfields Community Centre, Ives Road, Fiddlewood, Norwich. NR6 6DX.  We start at 10.30 and finish at midday and we always enjoy a cuppa and biscuits.

For further information contact Carole on norwichareacontactcarer@outlook.com  or ring on 07817361638.

With thanks for reading this post.

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Children are our greatest treasure.

Caring for our children brings abundant joy, love, and personal growth.

We strive, and the children we look after thrive, and that's what keeps us going.

Our impacts are immeasurable; Keep striving.

Stay connected and always remember you're not alone.

Thank you, kinship team and their expertise for your support and love.

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Three years into kinship care of our niece and nephews we are now able to reflect and be very thankful to the Kinship team, their expertise, and the community of carers we have had access to.

The young adults we support are thriving - and that’s what keeps us all going.

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Our grandson has been with us for 7 years now, it’s been really hard but so well worth it every step of the way. He keeps us going just as we keep him going. Kinship is a gift for us all. Just as our grandson is a gift. One great rollercoaster that just never stops.

Good and bad times, it’s all so worth it to see him grow and be successful in what life throws at him.

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It will be very worthwhile for the children in the long run 

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It will be very worthwhile for the children in the long run 

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While we are still brand new to being kinship carers, we wouldn't change anything about it. They are our closest family members and we want to provide as much stability and some sort of normal growing up experience for them. They love their new surroundings and school, and they have a great support system here. There might be difficulties ahead, but that is all part of life. They will grow up to be wonderful people. We love them very much.

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We’ve had our gorgeous grandson for 6 years now.  We have our ups and downs, and we get tired as we also work full time, but caring for him is so rewarding.  He deserves the best, and providing a safe happy place to grow up in is crucial  for his well-being.  Love you Alfie Doda x

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We’ve had our gorgeous grandson for 6 years now.  We have our ups and downs, and we get tired as we also work full time, but caring for him is so rewarding.  He deserves the best, and providing a safe happy place to grow up in is crucial  for his well-being.  Love you Alfie Doda x

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Love is a roller coaster. You just gotta ride it!

No two days are ever the same, but everyday is a gift! We get to see the incredible progress our little one makes daily - the good, the bad, and sometimes the ugly.

The best thing about being a kinship carer to our gorgeous grandson is, without doubt, the love, the laughs, and our house being filled with noise, books and toys. Mucky little fingerprints on doors and walls, a trail of fun and freedom and learning.

The worst thing? Cleaning up all the mess!

Watching our boy blossom and grow is heartwarming. The unbreakable bonds we have are unmatched.

The hurdles we have are paid off tenfold because money can't buy love <3

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This Kinship Care Week I'm pleased to be attending the peer support celebration in London. Support for kinship carers is crucial, connection is key, and its important for all kinship carers to not feel left behind and to feel part of a community, that's why I spend my time advocating for kinship carers in my area in Darlington.

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Here at Notts we are celebrating Kinship Care Week 2025 with a celebratory event taking place 09/10/2025. If you are local, its not too late to join us. Just email kinshipsupport@nottscc.gov.uk for more information.

We welcome all kinship carers (SGO / CAO or private arrangement).

Notts are trying hard to listen to our carers and shape our service by means of co-production (hearing the voices of our carers) and acting on what help looks like and what is useful to our carers. This week we are showcasing and celebrating our carers as well as holding a space for professionals to acknowledge the journey of a kinship experienced young person. Its a privilege to manage our service and the staff who go that extra mile to really try their best to support our carers.

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The journey of the unknown….

At times it’s hard, but ride that storm! Be proud of what you do and continue to do, each and every day. The brighter days do outweigh the darker ones. Support is out there no matter what part of your Kinship Carer journey you may be at. I’ve made some amazing friends who completely understand what I have and continue to experience. #inthesameboat

You are truly wonderful for all that you do 🥰

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We have been kinship carers for nearly 5 years now to the most beautiful little girl… she has brought us so much happiness. We have days that are hard work but I would not change things for the world now.! Kinship is amazing and has helped with the online courses on how to deal with situations that we face. Advice when needed etc.. It’s amazing to be part of such a big supporting group that are all in the same situation. Well done to us all 😁

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We'd do it for free anyway, because we do care, not just say we care, but because we're taking some of the strain off of the public purse, a helpful compromise would be nice, while we're helping fund that same purse.

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Words can hardly express the depth of our gratitude.

Every day, you open your hearts and your homes, stepping in with love, courage, and unwavering commitment to the children who need you most.

You are the quiet heroes — providing stability where there was uncertainty, comfort where there was loss, and belonging where there was disconnection. You do this not because it is easy, but because love calls you to stand in the gap.

Your sacrifices often go unseen, but the difference you make is immeasurable. You nurture hope, restore trust, and create safe spaces where children can heal and thrive. The way you show up — with patience, compassion, and resilience — changes lives in ways that ripple across generations.

Thank you for all that you do, for who you are, and for the love you give so freely. You are seen, valued, and deeply appreciated.

With heartfelt gratitude,

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Tasalla Shaiyen - PCC Kinship Assessment Team. 

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"When we agreed to being special  guardians for Demi and Annabelle, being over 60 years old it felt like we had given up our last years of freedom and fun. Instead with the support of kinship Care we have started a journey with so much joy and fun every day, we are so thankful for all you do"

Love Clive&Debs

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Central Bedfordshire Council are inviting all kinship carers to meet the team 

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Central Bedfordshire Council are inviting all kinship carers to meet the team 

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It's a hard road with so many daily struggles and challenges

It shouldn't be made harder by having to fight for what your child needs and deserves but it is.

I wake up each morning take a deep breath and keep fighting as my love is so much stronger than the obstacles thrown in front of me

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Myself and my husband have had our 2 grandsons for just over 4 years. When we started our journey we knew nothing about Kinship Care until we saw a poster in a window inviting people like ourselves to coffee and a chat with others in our situation. Reluctant at first, we went along and met 2 other people and a lady called Di from Kinship and our Kinship group was formed. It took a while but now our support group "Kinship Chesterfield" has blossomed and grown, we are like a family and get lots of advice and support from each other. We are almost at the SGO stage now and it's been a long journey that without our group we might not have made it this far. The best advice i can offer is find your local Kinship group, go along and above all else never give up.

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In April this year we took gaurdianship of our granddaughter who is now 17mths old.She has Downs syndrome we decided to step up as adoption was a no no as we wanted to be apart of her life seeing her grow up achieving her milestones.we are in our 50s and 60s but that didn't put us of it was a tough and hard journey to get were we are today but we would do it all again our granddaughter brings so much joy into our life's she is adorable in every way and loved by all that meet her.

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The heartache and grief no one can prepare you, however I know I’m not alone. We’ve had our grandson now for 4 years, and he is a star shining brightly, we are healing together one step at a time.

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Kinship caring for my grandson (now age 4) since 2021 is the gift that keeps giving. Not a day goes by where his grandfather and I know we made the right decision. The joy ,fun and motivation he gives us is beyond measure.

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Hi I have had my 3 grandchildren for 6half years has been some UPS and DOWNS along the way but I love the support of all other families at are monthly meetings . We also get lots information we need from some of the speakers we have coming in and the children love to mix at the session we have for them thay see there not only ones in this situation my main advice to new family members applying for guardianship don’t be ashamed of asking for all the help you need do all course you can get on and good luck to your future ❤️

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Kinship Care is not a job, it’s not a title, it’s an honour 🩷

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Kinship Care is not a job, it’s not a title, it’s an honour 🩷

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Being a Kinship carer is not a job, not a normal life path and not something that you plan for.

Being a Kinship carer means you are an advocate, a warrior, a protector, a shoulder to cry on, someone to laugh with or at, someone who picks up the pieces over and over again, someone who wipes away tears, stays up night after night when you are not well, who watches you take your first steps or teaches you to ride a bike, someone who loves you unconditionally and will be your biggest supporter and stand by you always, someone who carries the weight of the world on their shoulders, someone who’s whole life changes in a flash but keeps going no matter what. A kinship carer becomes a mum, a dad, a superhero - to keep you safe.

Being a kinship carer is full of challenges, heartache and loss, you feel not only your own pain but the pain of your little ones BUT … it is also truly heart warming and wonderful knowing that you are giving your little ones a better chance in life, knowing that through the sad times, there will be much much more happiness and love and although your path in life has changed forever, becoming a kinship carer creates a new future you can shape and share and most of all for me … becoming a kinship carer filled a hole in my heart I didn’t know I had 🩷 … would I do it all again knowing what I know now ? Absolutely I would … Kinship is an honour that I cherish every day xx

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In the time that I’ve been involved in the community that is Kinship, I’ve found it be a place where all are welcomed: no judgement, just kindness and always a quiet acceptance and understanding.  I'd like to think that this applies to the kinship support group that I help to run with another carer (a grandma like me). It also applies to the staff group that work from the Kinship office in London and those working from home across the regions as well as the many kinship carers that I have got to know through face-to-face and online peer support and special interest groups.  Kinship has become like a second family to myself – a lifeline at times, for sure.   When the going gets tough, that’s the time to turn to your Kinship family because when you’ve had the space to share the latest challenge and listen to others’ stories too, you will come away feeling much better – it’s a kind of emotional nourishment, I guess.  Finally, I would like to say to all those kinship carers out there (who probably don’t even know that they are kinship carers), get in touch and find the support that you need on this journey as it’s a road that we can travel together.

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The best things in life are not things. Rewards come in the form of a beaming smile, laughter, a huge hug and being told you are loved simply for being you. These are the rewards that come from being a kinship carer. Being there to witness the difference you make in the life of your youngsters as they progress through life. It’s amazing and fulfilling.

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🌟 “Family isn’t about how it begins, but how it grows. Our boy has always been a part of us... kinship care just gave it a name.”

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I am not very good at putting things into words and reading the other posts it sums it all up.

It is hard but rewarding. A whole rollercoaster of emotions. You feel so alone, at first, but there is help out there and you can't be afraid to ask for it.

Our lives have changed and is not how we were expecting our late 50's to be.

I was lucky enough to have therapy which made things clearer and helped me to understand all that I was feeling.

I now feel stronger and ready to face everything life throws at me.

We have just been granted our SGO and so feel more settled. We have head out grandson for just over 3 and a half years and looking forward to watching him grow and thrive.

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Being a kinship carer is both one of the hardest and most beautiful journeys you’ll ever walk. It’s stepping up in a moment of crisis, often without warning, and choosing love over comfort. It’s holding little hands that might tremble with fear and showing them they are safe, wanted, and home.

There are days of exhaustion, when the weight feels heavy, and nights when you wonder if you’re doing enough. But there are also moments—quiet smiles, unexpected laughter, the sparkle of trust returning in a child’s eyes—that remind you of the difference you’re making.

You may not have planned for this path, but your heart knew how to answer when it was needed most. You are giving the gift of stability, of family, of unconditional love. And even when it feels unseen, what you’re doing matters more than words can say.

To every kinship carer: you are not alone, you are strong, and you are giving a child the chance to heal and thrive. That is a legacy of love that will last forever. 💜

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Without Kinship help & support online by phone and ESPECIALLY via the workshops we would be lost! Knowing a second family is only a click of a button away reminds us we are not alone through every stage of our journey.

We tell anyone and everyone about the Kinship charity!

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Having seen a very good friend of mine aged 65 take on her great grandaughter from the age of 4 and she is now 6 with trauma and mental health issues , autism ,add, adhd , it has not been easy for her but she takes it her stride a few times she has given up but she has persevered to show her the love , attention, routine , cuddles etc and the great grandaughter still has kickoffs but on the whole she has turned into a lovely little girl . Without her great grandma she would have gone into care

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for six years now to the most amazing beautiful intelligent little girl she has brought light into my life she can be challenging but above all she shares her love with me and i share mine with her i have also adopted my son 27 years previous and the two of them are the best children anyone could ask for i would recommend to anyone who can share there lives with wonderful children like mine it makes such a difference ❤️ 💙

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Dear Fellow Kinship Carer,

Being a kinship carer has truly changed my life for the better. I’m forever grateful to be part of my young person’s journey.

Life is tough — and some of us get dealt a harder hand than others. You might ask yourself, “Why me?” But I ask, “Why not you?” We all bring something unique and powerful to this role. I didn’t choose to be a carer — it chose me.

My life was content. Calm. Steady. Then one day, a situation arose in our family and someone had to step up. That someone was me — and in walked my little person who needed help, love, and support.

Now, don’t get me wrong — not every day has been sunshine and rainbows. There were days when I asked myself, “What have I taken on?” Or thought, “I don’t need this stress in my life!” Even, “I’m too old for this beep beep!” 😅

But we held on. We didn’t give up.

And I’m so glad we didn’t — because our lives are so much richer for the love, the laughter, and the joy our young person has brought into our home. They’ve changed us in ways we never expected — and for the better.

So to every kinship carer out there — young or old — don’t give up. Don’t give in. Keep moving forward, one step at a time, striving for a better tomorrow — for both you and your young person.

Reach out when you need to. Support groups are a powerful source of strength, wisdom, and community. You may feel alone sometimes — but you are never truly alone. There is always someone who has walked this path before you, and who understands.

The reward? It’s in the moments. The smile when your child feels safe. The spark in their eyes when they believe in themselves. The opportunities they now have — to become someone, to do something — because you showed up.

You can be that somebody.

You already are that somebody.

You have it within you to make a life-changing difference to someone who needs it most.

So keep going. You’ve got this. 👏🏾❤️

With love and solidarity

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We have bought up our lovely grandson. Treasure every moment with them, time goes by so fast. He has just started secondary school and I still have memories of him in arms.

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We have bought up our lovely grandson. Treasure every moment with them, time goes by so fast. He has just started secondary school and I still have memories of him in arms.

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To Every Kinship Carer—A Message of Strength 

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To Every Kinship Carer—A Message of Strength 

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To Every Kinship Carer—A Message of Strength

There will be days when the weight feels unbearable. When exhaustion creeps in and doubt whispers louder than hope. But even then—especially then—don’t give up.

You are not alone. You are part of a quiet army of superheroes. Not the kind with capes or headlines, but the kind who show up, day after day, with love, resilience, and fierce loyalty. You stepped in when others stepped away. That makes you extraordinary.

Remember:
- A smile from your child is a win.
- A calm bedtime is a win.
- Getting through the day, even messy and imperfect, is a win.

Small victories are still victories. They build the bridge between the hard days and the hopeful ones.

There will be good days—full of laughter, connection, and pride. And there will be bad days—where tears fall and patience runs thin. But every single day, you are making a difference. You are rewriting a story with love.

So when you're at your lowest, hold onto this truth: You matter. What you do matters. And you are enough.

Kinship carers are the unsung heroes of family. You are the heartbeat of hope. And that makes you unstoppable.

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Thank you to all the wonderful kinship carers for everything you do. With love and appreciation from the kinship care team in Cumbria. We're here for you, so you can be there for them.

SGOsupport@cumbria.gov.uk

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"Each day brings its own battles, but we face them with purpose—because you, our little one, deserve a life filled with safety, joy, and possibility. We won’t stop until that life is yours."

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Being a kinship carer, isn’t a bed of roses everyday but it has its rewards, I’ve got my granddaughter with me full time had since she was 6 months old, now nearly 17 years old.

It’s been a journey but we are still here on this journey together.

I love her loads x

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In solidarity & admiration this Kinship Care Week

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In solidarity & admiration this Kinship Care Week

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I was lucky enough to join Kinship a few days before Kinship Care Week 2021 and in the four years since , it has been such a privilege to meet so many incredible kinship carers, to campaign alongside you and to bear witness to your experiences: the highs, the lows, the smiles, the tears. I never fail to be humbled by the generosity of the Kinship Community and that fact that whilst so many kinship carers are battling for support for their families, they're also supporting others in similar situations through peer support groups, sharing tips on Facebook and standing up and campaigning for change. Kinship carers - you are all incredible - here's to celebrating the difference you make, the hurdles you overcome, the love you give this Kinship Care Week and every day.

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One day the phone rang, a call like no other, a call to say our lives just changed.

The call started a rollercoaster, and even today the ride is still charging ahead at full speed. Sometimes we feel we are trudging up hill slowly dragged along by a huge emotional chain. Sometimes we are flying at full speed down the other side with laughs and giggles all the way.

Then there are the times when we are just sailing along the smooth parts without a care in the world, but these times are rare. But how we yearn for the smooth bits, the bits where the children are happy, the bits where school don't call, even the bits where its just us being a normal happy family.

As kinship carers we bring the smooth bits for our children, we work hard for the smooth bits and at times it feels unappreciated but be proud, you've got this, you are amazing and all our children think so, even if they say it ways we don't understand.

Congratulations to all kinship carers, your are fabulous people.

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Our kinship child arrived to us 3 years ago, ironically during kinship care week. Our journey has been a battle with lots of frustration and tears... but watching her growing into a wonderful young lady she is becoming over looks all of that.

Throughout our journey I have met lots of kinship carers, one in particular who has been an enormous amount of support and her knowing exactly what we are going through helps so much! For her I will be forever greatful and to my family who are my support network and biggest supporters have been a tower of strength and support and for them I will be forever thankful for keeping me going.

To any kinship carer out there who is struggling, I send a whole lot of love, never give up, it will be worth it in the end.

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I have been a Kinship carer for 11 years and I don't know where it's gone.

I have shared this kinship journey with my husband and we are both retired now.

I felt the need to set up a group after spending so much time feeling alone and lost. I have a nice group which I know is useful for everyone.

We are finding more information continually, at every seminar or workshop we attend or just talking at the meeting 😊

I can't imagine how I would have got where I am without the support from my group members and Kinship.org.uk

Carole

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I look forward to kinship care week every year to celebrate everything kinship. When I became a kinship carer I felt so much emotion and remember going to a group for the first time. We thought we were the only ones wow were we wrong they welcomed us into the kinship community and I have never looked back. We have been kinship carers for 10years and the boys still call me nana lucky and I really am - standing on the football sidelines cheering him on through rain or shine, watching machines move and light up pretending I know about coding! But best of all is kissing them goodnight exhausted knowing they are happy content and looking forward to tomorrow. So proud to be a kinship carer and I can't wait to celebrate 😍

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In this crazy world, as a kinship carer we often feel alone But there's a bond we share, together it's kinship we all know, Like a rhythm and melody, we harmonize as one. Through thick and thin, it may rain in our hearts but we all try to shine on the outside like the sun, Together forever, in this love, we all try to find the time to care,God bless us all, in a time when we need to be strong and navigate a stormy journey.

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Kingship week, is always a tough one, but a pleasure for us all to be recognised, my heart is full. The journey of kingship hasn’t always been easy — there have been tears, doubts, and plenty of hard days — but it has also brought so much love, resilience, and joy. Over the past 10+ years, I’ve leaned on support groups that reminded me I wasn’t alone, and now I get to give that same support back by co-running a group with my bestie Gabby. It feels like such a blessing to walk this road with others who truly understand. Every up and down has been worth it for the love and family at the heart of it all.

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Kinship care is a journey for all the family, relationships change, friendships change, dreams and hopes change. What does not change is the love we have as a family. We are in this together for the long haul and that's what makes life meaningful. We laugh, we cry, we experience life together. An added bonus from this journey has been the community of kinship carers we have met on the way, the support we give each other and our collective strength for recognition and change. This kinship care Week we celebrate that strength and community 💪 🥰

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Starting peer support groups has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.

Sometime the most healing words you can hear is 'me too' and then you know that you are not on alone anymore, you are with others that truly understands the journey you are going though.

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Every time this job feels too hard, or I feel too old, or tired or worn out with the contact issues and the money worries and whether my health will hold up long enough to see him to adulthood or I feel out of step with the parents half my age at the school or I’m too exhausted to run round with him or go cycling or take him to activities, or I’m mourning the loss of my life and my plans- I just look at that face and feel like every minute from age 1 to adulthood will have been worth it just to see him grow up and become the funny, clever, enquiring, adventurous person he is already starting to be. We’re in this together and I feel lucky to have him.

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We now as a family and I say that with a smile, we have gone a long way from the children dealing with trauma and using aggression and violence to try deal with there issues to dealing with local authorities and school and government, and smiling still, without kinship I think I would have given up, without kinship the isolation I had at the beginning would have tore us apart. The people I have met through kinship are all amazing, but most amazing are the children that have gone through what there have, and come up to you and say “I love you so much”, there are the things that keep us going, the smiles the little things like seeing them play without a worry, to see them with friends to see them growing up as a normal child and I hate to say normal child because these children are normal but there are special there are kinship children

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We've been Kinship carers for over 5 years, and were also lucky enough to welcome our son into the world last year.

What I have learnt in that time is:

We are made of strong stuff

Our children deserve the best lives

The fight never stops

Love is the most powerful tool we have

I used to think that a week to celebrate us for doing the right thing was a bit 'cringe'. But the reality is we blooming deserve it, and so do our children.

We should use this week to raise awareness, campaign, champion ourselves, but most importantly celebrate.

Celebrate the wins

Celebrate the losses

Celebrate the highs

Celebrate the lows

#valueourlove

#bettertogether

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I have been a kinship carer (Special Guardian) with my wife for eight years. We have two amazing and adventurous girls who bring life to every room.

I was thinking about this term ‘kinship’ and thought it was like ‘kin…ship’ A boat that carries your family however that is made up. Ours is a very large boat with seven children all together and about 35 others who seem to have been ‘adopted’ into our family on an informal basis. These are our passengers, the people we need to look after and care for, support and get to the next stage of their journey in life.

On our journey, we have picked up some ‘other people’ – some are like crew, who help us and support us, making the journey more pleasant and enjoyable, like the amazing staff (who often become friends) at Kinship and the team of volunteers like me.

Other people are more like stowaways –unwanted people who force their way into our lives, sometimes with good intentions but often not. These people become a distraction from our kinship children and upset the whole atmosphere of our ship. They do not pay their fare; expect us to do all the work for them and to serve their needs rather than the ‘passengers’ (our kinship children). On occasion, their actions put the whole ship in danger and in some cases sink it. This makes us very sad, not loved and not valued.

But the passengers! Oh the passengers! They are a joy (apart from the occasional Diva moments). They bring us great satisfaction and make us laugh, smile and take us to a deeper understanding of what love is. It is so encouraging to see them go beyond those downcast reports that said their lives would be terrible and instead see them flourish.

But the question I have this Kinship Care Week is this….Who is the Captain of YOUR ship? Have you allowed a stowaway to steer you off course or a passenger who is having a ‘moment’ to bring all fun to a halt?

Are you the Captain of your ship? The one who knows the passengers (children) better than anyone and is in fact an EXPERT. As the Captain you know your ‘ship’ inside out, who is trained and has the experience needed.

But like all Captains , you need some shore leave, a time to rest, relax and set a course for the next adventure. My hope is that during this Kinship Care Week, you are able to look back at the amazing journey you have made so far; look and see joy on the faces of your passengers (children) and set a course for the next adventure. As for the stowaways, you can always make them walk the plank! (I am joking of course)

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Every year as Kinship staff member I look forward to Kinship Care Week. I look forward to seeing all the wonderful things, stories and support being shared by kinship carers across the country. But as a kinship carer myself I mostly look forward to celebrating my family – celebrating that with the right support we made it – Our nephew will be turning 16 this October and I couldn’t be prouder of him, the milestones he has met and the challenges he has overcome.

I want to wish everyone a happy Kinship Care Week, no matter where you are or what you’re doing I hope there is something to celebrate. X