Kinship Care in the Portuguese Law: Meanings and Challenges

Abstract

Policies regarding Kinship Care (KC) constitute a distinctive aspect of the Portuguese child protection system, as the placement of children with extended family members is not formally recognized as out-of-home care. KC is officially designated as “Support from Another Family Member” (SAFM). SAFM has been largely invisible in national statistics, raising concerns regarding the adequacy of professional assessment, supervision, and the protection of children’s rights and well-being. This study aimed to characterize the profiles of families and children in SAFM and to identify the primary needs and challenges faced by children and caregivers. A quantitative approach was employed with professionals from the Commissions for the Protection of Children and Youth. Findings indicate that many children in SAFM present specific health or behavioral needs, yet technical support for caregivers remains severely limited, with minimal access to formal training. In addition, families often face high socioeconomic vulnerability. Despite these challenges, children demonstrate notable improvements in psychological well-being, behavior, and school performance. Moving forward, the recent legislative reform provides an opportunity to address financial disparities, but it remains critical to formally recognize SAFM as out-of-home care and to ensure ongoing supervision and mandatory caregiver training to safeguard children’s rights, stability, and development.