Darlington Kinship Connect - Our aims and Objectives

Darlington Kinship Connect envisions a community where kinship carers feel empowered, heard, valued, and supported in their essential role.

Our mission is to bridge gaps in resources, build awareness of kinship care and why it's so important, and ensure the well-being of Kinship carers and every child in such arrangements.

Our aims and Objectives:

• Support Groups: Provide a safe and nurturing space to hold regular Kinship Peer Support meetings for kinship carers to share experiences, seek advice, and build a sense of community.

• Financial Guidance: Give assistance when able in navigating benefits, grants, and other financial aid available to caregivers.

• Emotional Support: Provide the option to access counselling and mental health resources for both carers and the children in their care.

• To raise the profile of Kinship carers and how important their role is in the local community

• To offer a variety of peer led services to Kinship Carers and their families in Darlington

• To campaign and raise awareness for local Kinship Carers

• To signpost Kinship Carers to relevant services in the community

• To bring together representatives of voluntary and statutory organisations, government departments and individuals.

Building Sustainability

To ensure long-term support for local kinship carers, we will: Seek mentorship from established carers’ organisations or voluntary sector partners. Use funding to: Access relevant training (safeguarding, listening skills, governance). Bring in admin or bookkeeping support. Maintain a clear and welcoming community space. Set up regular supervision or reflective sessions for volunteers.

Communication and Community

Clearly communicate what we offer and our limits. Build a small advisory group of carers and professionals. Gather feedback to improve support and shape future activities.

Wellbeing and Self-Care

We recognise that to support others well, we must care for ourselves by: Keeping defined working hours. Taking regular breaks and family time. Accessing emotional support when needed. Asking for help when feeling overwhelmed.

Vision

To create a compassionate, informed space where kinship carers feel heard, valued, and empowered — built on shared experience and genuine connection.