Upcoming Family Ties – enabling and supporting care by kin

A research-informed workshop to support a contemporary approach to work with kin.

Research and policy are clear: whenever possible, children living away from home need to be cared for by kin. Careby kin offers children connection, culture, continuity, and a deep sense of belonging. At the same time, it can bring some unique complexities. Family dynamics, questions about capacity and the impacts of intergenerational trauma can all influence care by kin unfolds.

Developed and delivered by Chris-Maree Sultmann who has trained extensively across in this field for many years, this workshop draws on current research and contemporary thinking to support practitioners in strengthening their understandings of care by kin. Participants examine what it truly means to view care by kin as family supporting family – and what this perspective means for practice.

Throughout the workshop, participants deepen their understanding of both the opportunities and challenges that come with care by kin. They will review research evidence to myth-bust common assumptions, explore the complexities that can arise in assessment and support work with kin, and consider how to build their approach to partnering with families to promote the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

The focus is on equipping practitioners to support safe, responsive and sustainable care by kin.

Who should attend?

Any practitioner involved in assessing, supporting and working with foster carers and kin, their
supervisors and managers.