Kinship Carers Financial Support 2026-09-14
2026-09-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Kinship carers are providing stable homes for children outside of the seven pilot zones where funding is means-tested. The question arises from the need for consistent financial support and recognition of their work.
What plans does the Minister have to ensure consistent financial support for kinship carers in local authority areas outside kinship zones pilot areas?
Part of the kinship zones pilot is testing an allowance equivalent to the fostering allowance alongside a robust impact evaluation, but we are not waiting for that evaluation to improve England's approach to kinship care. Our Families First reforms are unlocking the potential of kin-based care across the country through family group decision making by default, and practical support through family network support packages.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not provide specific plans for consistent financial support for kinship carers outside the pilot areas.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Kinship carers outside the seven pilot zones receive means-tested funding, and interim findings are awaited to assess parity before the next general election.
Will the Minister join me in thanking kinship carers in Northampton and across all our constituencies who give children a stable and loving home? Outside the seven zones that the Minister mentioned, funding is still means-tested. Will he therefore commit to publishing interim findings before the end of the pilot in 2029 so that families have an answer on parity before the next general election?
I will. I would also like to pass on and share my thanks for all the amazing kinship carers we have across the country. Outside kinship zones, a number of councils are showing that they can take steps to go further than others, and Plymouth city council, Sheffield city council and North Tyneside council are great examples of that.
▸
Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to publishing interim findings before the end of the pilot in 2029.
Response accuracy