Kinship Care
When a child can't live at home, being cared for by someone they already know and trust can make all the difference. Kinship care allows relatives or close family friends to step in and provide a safe, stable home. This minimises disruption and helps the child stay connected to their culture, community and identity.
If you're already part of a child's life, you might be the steady, loving presence they need. And you won't be alone. Anglicare is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
What is kinship care?
Key differences from traditional Foster Care
Why kinship care matters for a child's wellbeing
Who can become a kinship carer?
You don't need to have formal qualifications or parenting experience to become a kinship carer. If you already have a strong relationship with a child in need, and can offer them a safe, stable home, you may be eligible.
Kinship carers come from many different backgrounds and experiences. Some are working full-time, others are retired or have family commitments of their own.
What matters most is your connection to the child and your willingness to care.
Kinship carer assessment process
All kinship carers go through a formal assessment to ensure the child's safety and wellbeing. This includes home safety checks, conversations about your capacity to care, and identifying what support you may need. The process is respectful, transparent and designed to help you feel informed and prepared, not judged.
Support for kinship carers
Types of financial support available
Anglicare provides financial assistance to help with the costs of raising a child. This will include regular carer payments, possibly reimbursements for additional services and access to other resources when needed.
Ongoing training and peer networks
You'll have access to trauma-informed training, tailored resources and the encouragement of other carers walking a similar journey. Anglicare also works with local churches equipped to provide practical support and wrap-around care.
24/7 support
Kinship carers are supported by a dedicated case manager who understands your situation. They also have access to 24/7 on call phone support.
Why choose Anglicare for your kinship care journey?
Anglicare has decades of experience supporting carers and families across NSW. Our team understands the unique dynamics of kinship care and works in partnership with you to ensure the best outcomes for children. From training and financial support to case manager guidance and community connection, we're committed to supporting children and helping you thrive as a carer.
How to get started as a kinship carer
If you have been approached about kinship care, please consider reaching out. You don't have to navigate this alone. Our friendly team will guide you through the process and help you access the support you need.
Start your journey with Anglicare today.
Frequently asked questions about kinship care
Explore Different Types of Foster Care
Every child's situation is different, which means foster care can take many forms. From providing a safe home for a short time to offering longer-term stability and support, each type of foster care meets a different need. Explore the foster care options available through Anglicare to discover what might be the right fit for your household.
Short-term Foster Care
Provide a safe place for a season.
Short-term carers offer children stability and care while Anglicare works with their families toward restoration or a long-term plan.
Long-term Foster Care
Provide a safe place to grow up.
When children can't return to their birth families, long-term carers offer love, stability, and the security every child needs to flourish.
Respite Foster Care
Small moments. Big impact.
Respite carers strengthen children and foster families alike by being part of a wider circle of care. Just one weekend can make a world of difference.
Crisis Foster Care
Crisis carers provide immediate, short-term foster care for children who cannot stay in their home due to urgent safety concerns. You may be contacted at short notice, including after hours. This type of care can last a few days or up to three months.
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.