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Written question asked by Jayne Kirkham (Labour) on Monday, 7 October 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 October 2024 (named day). It was answered by Janet Daby (Labour) on Thursday, 10 October 2024 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Special Guardianship Orders: Carers' Benefits

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps she plans to take to ensure a consistent approach to calculating special guardianship allowances.

Answer

The department recognises the valuable and important role that kinship carers, including special guardians, play in caring for some of the most vulnerable children. The government is committed to working with local government to support children in care, including through kinship arrangements.

Statutory guidance issued to local authorities makes it clear that children and young people should receive the support that they and their carers need to safeguard and promote their welfare. There is no limit on the level of support, including financial support, that local authorities can provide.

Financial support is paid at the discretion of the local authority and in accordance with their model for assessing support needs. All local authorities should have in place clear eligibility criteria in relation to the provision of support services.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
7676
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Carers' benefits Special guardianship orders Kinship care
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk