Kinship Care

Kinship Care

What is Kinship Care?

Kinship is a means by which a child who might be the subject of Care Proceedings can remain living with a family member such as a grandparent, guardian or other carer if their parents are unable to care for them. Grandparents are the most common kinship carers in the UK.

Kinship care may be temporary and informal or can be permanent and formalised through a Court Order.

Why should kinship care be considered?

Kinship gives the child a chance to maintain their relationships with their extended family network and stability and on some occasion’s without legally separating them from their birth parents. The carers will ensure that a consistent, secure and loving home is provided to the child.

If an informal kinship arrangement is in place, the carer will not automatically be granted Parental Responsibility and therefore the parents retain rights to make decisions regarding the children.

An informal kinship arrangement can be terminated at any time by the parents without notice.

Financial support

Placement with a family member must be carefully considered as the carer will need to ensure that they can financially support the child.

Financial support may be available for kinship carers. Support and services may be obtained from the Local Authority as it has a legal obligation under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989 to provide such support.

How can Duncan Lewis Solicitors help?

Duncan Lewis Solicitors can advise family members, guardians and carers considering applying for kinship on their legal obligations as a kinship foster carer and the process involved. Our experienced family law team can also advise and assist parents who have been informed that kinship care is being considered as an option for the children.

Duncan Lewis is recommended by The Legal 500 legal directory for its specialism in all aspects of family and children law nationwide and cross-border. The Legal 500 applauds our family and child care solicitors to be a team of lawyers that are ‘friendly professionals who take their time to understand your case’. Duncan Lewis team includes Advanced Members of the Law Society’s Family Panel, and members of the Law Society Children.

How will the matter be funded?

Legal aid may be available, depending on the nature of proceedings. Our Children Law team are able to discuss funding options with you and can assess you for legal aid.

A fixed fee quote or a quote with a legal representative’s hourly rate may also be available for this matter. Potential quotes for such funding will be confirmed with you in advance of any work being undertaken on your matter.

For expert legal advice on all family and childcare matters, contact Duncan Lewis Solicitors on 033 3772 0409.