In addition to the support we give you, there are a number of local organisations you may be interested in.
Financial and practical support
Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF)
Funding for therapy and specialist support services for children who were previously in care and are now under a Special Guardianship Order.
You will need to:
- Ask your social worker or the council to apply on your behalf
- Have your support needs assessed first
Find out more about the Adoption Support Fund (ASF) on GOV.UK
Training and peer support
Kinship (national charity)
A leading charity supporting kinship carers, including special guardians. They offer free advice, online workshops, peer support groups and guidance on parenting, benefits and wellbeing.
- Email address: hello@kinship.org.uk
- Phone number: 0330 401 1771
- Website: Official Kinship website
Local training and support groups
The Council may offer or signpost to training and peer support groups to help you:
- understand your role
- manage behaviour and support your child’s development
- navigate education, health and social care systems
Training and peer support can help build confidence and reduce isolation.
Advice and wider support
HIVE Portsmouth (community directory)
A directory of local organisations offering support with family life, money, housing, SEND and wellbeing. Useful for finding services near you.
- Email address: info@hiveportsmouth.org.uk
- Phone number: 023 9400 3400
- Website: HIVE Directory
Citizens Advice Portsmouth
Free, independent advice on benefits, debt, housing, employment and legal matters. Helpful if you need support managing finances or understanding your rights.
Visit the Citizens Advice website
Employment and housing support
Employment support
You may be entitled to workplace support or leave similar to parents or adopters.
Find guidance on the GOV.UK website.
Housing and accommodation support
If your home is not suitable for a child or sibling group, you may be able to get advice or support with housing through the Council.
Find local housing support through the HIVE directory.