Section 1B: What is a kinship peer support group?

What is a kinship peer support group? 

Welcome! You’re here because you’ve taken the first step in your kinship peer group journey. Whether you’ve decided to set up a group, or you’re actively thinking about it, at Kinship, we’re here to give you the tools you need on your journey.

Peer support is where you share your stories and experience with people who are in the same boat as you. Building a connection and a relationship to support each other – through the good times and the not so good.

Kinship groups provide support for kinship carers in their local area, online, or a mixture of the two. Built on trust groups are a safe and supportive space where kinship carers can come together and connect with others who have similar experiences.

Did you know that there are already over 140 kinship peer support groups active in England and Wales? That’s a powerful community of kinship carers supporting each other.

Different types of kinship peer support groups

There are different types of kinship support groups. There’s no right or wrong way to run your group.

Generally, there are three main types of groups:

• in-person – coming together in person, where you meet with others in a dedicated space
• online – using video technology like Zoom or Facebook to come together with others at home
• a mix of both (which can be known as a hybrid group) – for example a monthly meeting in-person and then also meeting once a month online, so those who cannot make the in-person sessions can join too

When you’re setting up your group think about what works for you and the kinship carers who might join.

Our peer support group library can support you free resources.