Thank you for contacting me about kinship carers.
As you rightly point out, family and friends play a vital role in caring for children who are unable to live with their parents. Quite understandably, most children benefit from living with someone they already know and trust, rather than a stranger.
I understand that the Department for Education is currently considering the recommendations made in the Independent Review of Children's Social Care. This includes the recommendations to introduce a statutory definition of kinship care, provide kinship carers with paid time off work when a child starts living with them, and provide financial allowances at the same rate as foster carers.
Further, Statutory guidance for local authorities on supporting kinship carers has been issued. This makes it clear that children and young people should receive the support that they and their carers need to safeguard and promote their welfare. It explains that support, including financial support, can be provided under the Children Act 1989. Local authorities should also have clear eligibility criteria in place in relation to the support services they provide.
Local authorities are also required by central government to publish a policy that sets out their approach to promoting and supporting the needs of all children living with kinship carers. The policy should be clear, updated regularly, and made freely and widely available. I would encourage you to contact the Isle of Wight Council for more information about the policy on the Island.
I would like to thank all those Islanders who work tirelessly and give their time for those they care for.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.