Join us as we unpack kinship care, a vital arrangement where children who can't live with their biological parents are raised by relatives or close community members. You'll learn why this is Australia's preferred out-of-home care solution and how it aligns with the Child Placement Principle. We'll clarify the difference between known and unknown kinship carers and reveal the critical role of kinship care assessments in ensuring child safety, meeting their needs, and identifying potential risks and necessary supports.

Yet, these care arrangements often face significant hurdles. We'll examine the stresses of emergency placements, the intricate nature of pre-existing relationships, the challenges of limited placements that can push practitioners to seek unknown kin, and the common frustrations with bureaucracy and inadequate support for carers. To truly grasp the unique emotional world of kinship carers, we'll introduce the concept of ambiguous loss. Ultimately, we'll highlight the ongoing initiatives to enhance kinship care practice through specialised tools, culturally responsive methods, and relationship-based practice.

Don’t forget to send your practice stories or podcast topics to [email protected]

Also, check out our new YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RelationalPractice

Music by Hannah Park

Editing by Angus Pinkstone