Liverpool will mark the 10th anniversary of National Kinship Care Week from 5 to 11 October 2026, recognising the relatives and friends who raise children when their parents are unable to do so.

The national campaign originated in Liverpool in 2016, when a group of local kinship carers came together to ensure families like theirs received recognition, value and support. Through Kinship Carers Liverpool, their vision grew into a national awareness week that is now celebrated in more than 20 countries worldwide.

Who is a kinship carer?

Kinship carers can be grandparents, aunts, uncles, older siblings, family friends or other trusted adults who provide children with love, security and a sense of belonging. Across England and Wales, more than 141,000 children are being raised in kinship care, staying connected to their families, culture, communities and support networks.

Liverpool's celebrations and support

Throughout Kinship Care Week, Kinship Carers Liverpool will host coffee mornings, a special high tea and an intergenerational celebration. Liverpool Town Hall and St George's Hall will be illuminated in green on 4 and 5 October as a visible symbol of the city's appreciation for kinship carers.

The city will renew its commitment to kinship families through the Liverpool Kinship Charter and Local Offer, which provide information, support and guidance for kinship carers and the children they care for.

Support available

Kinship Care Week will also highlight the many "hidden" kinship carers across Liverpool. Many people caring for a relative's or friend's child may not realise they are considered kinship carers and may be unaware that support, advice and local networks are available to help them.

Councillor Liz Parsons, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, said: "Kinship carers open their hearts and homes, often at a moment's notice, to keep children connected to the people, places and relationships that matter most to them. What makes kinship care so special is that it helps children maintain a sense of identity and belonging during some of the most difficult times in their lives."

Anyone who thinks they may be a kinship carer, or would like to learn more about the support available, can access Liverpool's Kinship Local Offer at liverpool.gov.uk/children-and-families/childrens-social-care/kinship-local-offer/