There are thousands of people, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends who care for children because their natural parents are unable to do so. If you are looking after a child like this – full time or most of the time – then you are a kinship carer.

The majority of kinship carers are grandparents who would admit that whilst they wouldn’t want their grandchildren to live anywhere else, it can sometimes be a struggle emotionally, financially and physically.

Organisations such as the Grandparents Association can provide advice and support by phone and on their website: www.grandparents-association.org.uk.

Sunderland Carers Centre is also offering Caring with Confidence sessions. These are aimed at grandparents who looking after a grandchild as a result of their parents’ alcohol or drug misuse problems.

The sessions include communicating, looking after yourself, tackling challenges and difficulties, finance etc. They will offer the opportunity to hear from others in a similar position to yourself and give you opportunity to think about positive changes you can make to your caring role.

For more information contact Sunderland Carers Centre Telephone – 0191 5673232 or E-mail kevin@sunderlandcarers.co.uk
www.sunderlandcarers.co.uk/