LIVED EXPERIENCES
Kin Denied Caregiver Role Case Study
When suggesting the creation of new policies or modifying existing ones, it is important to listen to those who have lived experiences. The voices of those who are in or have been through the system must shape practice recommendations and ensure policies are effective and equitable. Youth, parents and kin who have been involved in the child welfare system can speak directly to the challenges experienced and are able to provide concrete information on the actions we can take to expand and better support kinship care arrangements. Young people, parents and kin must be included in the design of new law and policy and we must implement policies and practices that ensure that youth, kin and family are actively and meaningfully engaged throughout the permanency planning process in a variety of venues including at administration tables, before state and federal lawmakers and helping to inform and educate the judicial branch.
Jessica is an aunt to five nieces and nephews. Due to a serious tragedy, the mother and father of the children were no longer available to care for the children. All five were placed in foster care and separated into different homes. While Jessica indicated her intention to be a caregiver for the children, the agency has made several allegations to deny her, none of which are legal, or safety related. Jessica continues to fight to be a caregiver but does not have legal standing in court and nowhere else to turn. She has not had any visitation or phone contact with her nieces and nephews in over four months.
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Kinship Care in Pennsylvania: Creating an Equitable System for Families – January 2021
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