8 November 2025
A globally recognised program is now helping to build stronger support systems for children in foster and kinship care in the Peel Region.
The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ program provides wrap-around support for foster and kinship carers and the children in their care through peer support, social activities and planned and emergency respite care.
The evidence-informed model creates a community of local carers who work together to support each other and the children and young people in their care.
Life Without Barriers is launching a new MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ “constellation” for carers living in Rockingham, Mandurah, Pinjarra and surrounds this week following the success of the program in the Perth and the Joondalup areas.
Funded by the Department of Communities, the program helps to strengthen placement stability, reduce carer isolation and support siblings staying together by creating a close-knit community of people on a similar path.
The Mockingbird group in the Peel Region will be made up of up to 10 local carer households supported by an experienced carer known as a “Hub Home Provider”.
Hub Home Provider and carer, Jess Kneale, said she was looking forward to helping the new group build an “extended family” that not only provides a supportive community for the children in care, but also their carers.
Ms Kneale will help create connections within the group, provide emotional support, coordinate social activities, and facilitate access to training, resources and services.
“Taking on the care of a child or young person is an incredibly important role that comes with a lot of responsibility,” Ms Kneale said.
“But the Mockingbird Family program provides extra support for carers, and the children in their care, by creating connections with people and families who are on the same journey.
“It helps to build a village which can make a huge difference to the wellbeing of the children and young people, and the carers.”
The MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ model helps children build friendships with peers who understand their experiences and take part in fun social activities.
These experiences help young people feel secure, valued and listened to, helping to improve relationships and overall wellbeing.
Life Without Barriers chief executive Claire Robbs said the organisation had already seen the positive impact the program had on children in care, and their carers, in Western Australia.
“They say it takes a village to raise a child, and that’s exactly what the Mockingbird model does,” Ms Robbs said.
“Life Without Barriers recognises the extraordinary value of foster carers, and we want to ensure they have the support they need to provide critical support to children and young people.
“Nationally, we are an organisation that is committed to providing safe, nurturing, and culturally respectful environments for children and young people who cannot live with their families.
“This program will help foster a sense of community and connection, reduce isolation and improve outcomes for children and young people in care.”
Helen Nys, Life Without Barriers’ director of WA Child, Youth and Family services, said the MOCKINGBIRD FAMILY™ model provides wrap-around support to offer extra stability and care.
“It helps create a community built on trust and understanding that nurtures and supports both the children and their carers,” Ms Nys said.
“I am so pleased that we can offer that extra level of support now in the Peel area.”
The new Mockingbird constellation in the Peel Region aims to:
Enhance stability for children and young people in care
Reduce placement breakdowns by offering carers timely support
Foster connections through regular gatherings and shared experiences
Empower carers with access to peer support and practical assistance
To find out more about the Mockingbird Family model, go to: lwb.org.au.
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