Cabinet approves the new Kinship Care Strategy and Local Offer

Today, Cabinet has approved the Kinship Strategy and Local Offer for Kinship Carers, which aims to enhance the support and resources available to carers and children living in kinship arrangements across Barnsley.

The strategy has been developed in response to the Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities on Kinship Care, published back in October 2024. The Participation and Fostering teams conducted consultations through surveys and face-to-face sessions with kinship carers and children to inform the strategy. These sessions highlighted the need for better access to financial, educational, and therapeutic support, ensuring the strategy effectively meets the needs of families.

The strategy will provide comprehensive support to carers, ensuring children in kinship arrangements have access to resources that support their mental and physical health, educational opportunities, and safe, affordable accommodation.

Alongside the strategy, the Kinship Local Offer would be published on the Barnsley Virtual Family Hub website, detailing the support and services available to kinship carers and children.

Councillor Trevor Cave, Cabinet Spokesperson for Children’s Services, said: "This strategy is a step forward in supporting kinship carers and the children they care for.

“By providing clear and accessible information about available resources, we want to ensure that these families receive the support they need.”

“We recognise the invaluable role that carers play in our community, and this strategy is designed to empower them with the tools and resources necessary to provide the best possible care for the children in Barnsley.”

More information about the Kinship Care Strategy and Local Offer for Kinship Carers will be shared at our Family Hubs Festival on Saturday 30 August in the Glass Works Square.