Support with family time
Maintaining strong connections with birth parents and extended family is often an important part of a child’s journey in kinship care. This time spent together—known as Family Time (sometimes called contact)—can help children feel secure and supported in their relationships.
What does family time involve?
Family Time can be informal or arranged through the courts, depending on the child’s legal status. It may take place in a variety of settings, such as:
- Contact centres
- Community venues
- Family homes or other familiar spaces
Supervision may be provided by a social worker, a member of the Family Time team, or the kinship carer themselves. If contact is court-directed and requires supervision, we will work with you to ensure arrangements are safe and appropriate.
Who oversees family time?
Formal, supervised contact is managed by the local authority. In Stoke-on-Trent, the Family Time team coordinates these arrangements. Depending on the child’s legal status, supervision may be carried out by a professional or by the carer. If you live outside Stoke-on-Trent, contact arrangements may differ—please speak with your social worker for guidance specific to your area.
Transport arrangements
Kinship carers are usually expected to support with transport to and from family time sessions. This helps children feel safe and reassured by being accompanied by someone they trust. The Family Time service generally does not have capacity to provide transport. If you’re unable to manage transport, this may mean unfamiliar people are involved, which can be unsettling for the child. Please speak to your social worker if you have concerns or need support with travel arrangements.
Support with challenges
We understand that family time can sometimes be emotionally or logistically challenging. You’re not alone—support is available to help you manage these situations. You can:
- Speak to your supervising social worker
- Contact the Family Time team for advice
- Access training opportunities to build confidence in managing contact
If you’re interested in attending a training session, please let us know—we’re working to develop resources that meet carers’ needs.