Kinship Carer, Kim, has shared some of her experience with us. Kinship Caring varies from the role of a Foster Carer, but there is still so much support available. Here is what Kim had to say:
When were you approached?
I was never approached by the local authority due to the circumstances of the children arriving with me. They were brought to me by the police, which was terrifying and shocking for the children and me.
How was the assessment process?
It was stressful, at times I questioned myself if I could give the children the support they needed. It at times felt intrusive, but once the assessment was completed, I felt elated that I was trusted to be the children’s voice, to keep them safe, loved, and help them in the future.
How do you find the training as a Kinship Carer?
My training experience has and continues to be very rewarding. It helps me understand child trauma, but also strategies for dealing with my own worries as a carer.
How would you describe the support you receive as a Kinship Carer?
I have had such amazing support during my time. This ranges from the Supervising social workers, the children’s social workers, schools & health teams alongside Kinship support groups. At times, I felt so lonely and terrified at times, but I feel safe and reassured by the professional teams surrounding me and the children. I could not do this without them!
How would you describe your overall experience?
Being a kinship carer for children who have experienced trauma is a journey filled with emotional depth and profound challenges. It demands patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment. To create a safe space where the children feel understood, rebuilding their trust in relationships, and guiding them gently towards emotional recovery. It is challenging and I miss ‘me’, giving up my life to support the children through the trauma they have experienced, I have good and bad days but to see the little bits of recovery in the children is so rewarding and I wouldn’t have been able to get through without the professional team that surrounds us every day!