Kinship care

Becoming a kinship carer

Before placing a child with a  family member or close friend, we would assess if this arrangement is suitable and meets the needs of the child.   

An assessment would involve:

• a visit to the home to interview the proposed carer and to ensure the home is suitable for the child's needs.
• a Disclosure Scotland check on every adult in the caring household.
• checks of social care database and the health records of all potential carers.

Any plan for a child to be permanently in your care would be agreed at a Looked After and Accommodated Child review. This assesses your ability to meet the child's specific needs. It includes your family history, experience of childcare, your lifestyle, family relationships, and the support needs of you and the child.

Placements are reviewed regularly to make sure they continue to meet the child's needs.