On Friday 27 February the Department for Education launched seven Kinship Zones to support kinship families with the right help at the right time. 

The Kinship Zone local authorities are:

• Bexley
• Bolton
• Newcastle
• North East Lincolnshire
• Medway
• Thurrock
• Wiltshire

Government launches investment in support for kinship carers

What is the pilot about?

This pilot is designed to support up to 5,000 families over the life of the pilot, with over £126m confirmed for the first two years while we test and learn.

This is a major step forward for kinship care and the largest investment of its kind to date, focused on practical support and on what the evidence shows works for children.

The government is testing new ways to support kinship carers. This includes things like:

• Money for carers to help with the costs of looking after a child.
• Practical support for families, especially when they need help early on to keep things stable at home.

Where is it happening?

The pilot will run for three years in seven areas across the country, including Bexley.

What does it mean for Bexley?

Bexley is really pleased to be one of the areas taking part, helping children stay safely with their families and frineds is a key part of our work, and this pilot gives us a great chance to strengthen our support even further.

What’s happening next?

Bexley residents will start seeing more information about the pilot from next week, including information on our website and posts on social media, as everything builds up to the official launch.