Support in Kith and Kin Care: The Experience of Carers

Abstract

As a home-based care option for children at risk of significant harm, kinship care placements are steadily increasing in Australia as they are in other western countries. This article describes a qualitative research study undertaken with 65 kin (relative) and kith (nonrelative) carers in Victoria in the years 2004–2007. The aims of the research were to explore the lived experience of carers and to understand their support needs. The findings distinguish similarities and differences between the experience of formal and informal grandparent carers, non-grandparent relative carers and nonrelative carers. The article discusses the role of caregiving for the different groups, family relationships, finances (having enough money, as well as having too little), relationships with government agencies, respite and peer support.