Siblings who stay together, thrive together. 

For children and young people in out-of-home care, sibling relationships are among the most important connections they have. When children enter care, they’re often experiencing one of the most difficult times in their lives.  

Keeping siblings together provides stability, comfort and a sense of belonging that can make all the difference. 

What are the benefits of keeping siblings together? 

1. Stability and emotional security 
Being placed in care can be a confusing and distressing experience for children. Having a brother or sister by their side provides a familiar, trusted bond that helps ease the transition. Research shows that siblings who remain together in care experience greater emotional security and adjust more easily to their new environment. 

2. Stronger lifelong connections 
Sibling relationships are often the longest-lasting connections in a person’s life. Keeping siblings together in care helps maintain and strengthen these relationships, providing an important source of love and support well into adulthood. 

3. Improved mental health and wellbeing 
Separation from family members can lead to feelings of isolation and grief. When siblings are kept together, they experience fewer feelings of loneliness and loss. Studies have shown that children who remain with their siblings in care have more positive mental health outcomes compared to those who are separated. 

4. Positive educational and social outcomes 
Children placed with their siblings often achieve more in school and build stronger social connections. With their brother or sister by their side, they feel more confident in forming relationships and navigating new experiences. This sense of security positively impacts their education and social development. 

5. Connection to identity and culture 
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, maintaining family and kinship ties is essential for their connection to identity and culture. Keeping siblings together ensures they grow up with a shared understanding of their heritage, traditions and community. 

How you can help 

Becoming a carer for siblings is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference in the lives of children in need.

As a carer, you can provide a safe, stable home where siblings can grow and thrive together. 

Open your home and heart to a sibling group by taking the next step.  

Enquire about becoming a carer or join one of our free information sessions to learn more about how you can help keep siblings together.