The Department for Child Protection has partnered with Life Without Barriers to deliver the innovative MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY program, which creates ‘constellations’ of up to 10 foster or kinship carer families who live in a similar area and act as a support network and community.

These networks are supported by a Life Without Barriers Liaison Officer and a ‘hub home’ provider who is also a carer. The constellation operates like an extended family and the hub home like a grandparent’s house that is familiar and comfortable.

The ‘hub home’ provider supports children, young people and carers by coordinating monthly gatherings for connection and training and supporting family relationships. This innovative program helps provide stability for children and young people and care and respite for carers by fellow carers.

The newest constellation, based at Hope Valley in Adelaide’s north-east, was launched recently by Minister Katrine Hildyard. It is the fifth of its kind in South Australia, with other constellations successfully operating in Marino, Fairview Park, Strathalbyn and Lobethal.

Recent research by Flinders University has highlighted the early positive success of the program in increasing support for carers and keeping siblings connected in South Australia.

A sixth constellation is expected to launch soon.

Quotes attributable to Katrine Hildyard

I am inspired by the carers who open their hearts and their homes to support and nurture children and young people. Being a carer is really rewarding but it can also be incredibly challenging.

We often hear from carers that some of their most meaningful and effective support comes from other carers, and this is exactly what the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY program provides.

Having visited several ‘constellations’ and ‘home hubs’, it is clear that the deepening of relationships through the hub are of extraordinary benefit to carers and children.

The program is so important in creating bright, connected and supportive futures for children and young people and in helping carers to support each other and undertake the carer role in an enduring way.

It is also really important in enabling prospective carers to see the range of supports that could be available to them.

Mockingbird’s success here in South Australia continues to grow with the constellations and ‘home hubs’ creating a sense of extended family with respite, support and connection available and creating ongoing meaningful relationships with siblings and ensuring they are connected.

Quotes attributable to Life Without Barriers Director of Child, Youth and Family Services in SA, Simone Mather

The model provides support, connectedness, and friendships for foster carers across a local geographical area. 

This peer-support model has significantly benefited foster carers and children and young people. It essentially acts as an extended family, with multiple family units coming together to support one another.

The wrap-around approach offers a greater sense of safety, support and stability and children remain connected to their community.

The Constellations provide additional opportunities for social gatherings, just like in any extended family, moving away from the traditional use of respite.