Please note, we do not operate a hybrid model of training and therefore to facilitate the learning experience for all, delegates should use their own IT device; sharing is not recommended.
The Role of the Kinship Care Worker
The role of the kinship worker has continued to develop as more children are placed with family members. This role is both complex and challenging given the unique circumstances of kinship families and the legal, financial, practical, and emotional challenges they face. This workshop provides workers with an opportunity to learn about the development of kinship care, including legislative and policy context, review their role and responsibilities in relation to kinship carers and to consider the development of best practice which includes ways of supporting kinship carers, developing their knowledge and skills as well as managing risk.
This workshop would be suitable for practitioners who are involved in assessing and / or supporting kinship carers, including practitioners who are supporting children and young people living with kinship families.
FACILITATOR
Heather is a qualified social worker who has practiced in Children & Families and Family Placement Services within local authority settings, both as a social worker and manager. Whilst working within Family Placement, she primarily focused on Kinship Care Services and supported staff and practice development in this area, as well as being a Kinship Care Panel Member.
Heather joined the AFKA team in July 2024 as the Kinship Care Consultant, before accepting an internal transfer to the role of Trainer Consultant in September 2025. She currently chairs the West of Scotland and North East of Scotland Consortia. Moving forward, she will provide support with the teaching on AFKA’s Postgraduate Courses – Securing Children’s Futures and Relative Matters. She co-chairs the ‘Transitions and Staying Connected Practice’ Surgery and the ‘Using the Permanence Guides in Practice’ Surgery.
Her workshop portfolio currently includes: The Role of the Kinship Worker; Assessing Kinship Carers; The Child’s Journey Through Permanence; Introduction to the Staying Connected Toolkit.
Heather chairs Kinship Panels for Local Authorities and undertakes consultancy work.
For more information and to book a place, download our Booking form 12 November 2026