Grandparents and family carers shared powerful stories of how support is helping transform children's lives as Bolton officially launched its new Kinship Zone at a special event in the Town Hall
Held during Kinship Care Week, the event brought together the voice of kinship families, professionals and community partners to celebrate the vital role relatives and family friends play in raising children when parents are unable to do so.
Across England and Wales, more than 141,000 children are being raised in kinship care.
Guests heard first-hand from kinship carers who described how practical, emotional and financial support from Bolton Council had helped their grandchildren overcome challenges, succeed in school and build brighter futures.
The launch showcased the support available through Bolton's new Kinship Zone, including advice, training, peer support, family activities, Kinship Allowances and Family Network Support Packages, which provide flexible practical and financial assistance to help children remain safely within their family networks.
Bolton is one of only seven local authorities selected to deliver the Government's Kinship Zone pilot, and the only one in the North West, bringing enhanced support and investment to local families.
The Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, welcomed guests and praised the dedication of kinship carers across the borough, adding that:
“I am incredibly proud of the work taking place across Bolton to ensure that children can live happy and healthy lives within their own families, wherever it is safe and right for them to do so.
“Bolton has been at the forefront of developing support for kinship families, strengthening the help available so that children can remain within their family networks.
“The launch of the Kinship Zone is a significant achievement and one of which our borough can be very proud of.”
Sandra Bruce, Director of Children's Services at Bolton Council, said:
"Kinship carers provide children with something incredibly important: love, stability and a sense of belonging during some of the most difficult periods of their lives.
“The stories shared today demonstrate the life-changing difference the right support can make for both carers and the children they are raising."
A key message throughout the event was the importance of keeping children connected to the people, places and relationships that matter most to them.
Children benefit greatly from remaining connected to their family, identity, school, friendships, community, culture and heritage.
These connections play a crucial role in shaping their sense of belonging, wellbeing and resilience.
The Kinship Zone aims to strengthen and preserve those connections through practical support, financial assistance and access to vital support for Kinship Carers.
If you think you may be a family in Bolton who could be eligible for support through Bolton’s Kinship Zone, visit www.bolton.gov.uk/kinshipzone for more information or email kinshipcareteam@bolton.gov.uk.