One of our grandparent carers has just been dealt a devastating blow. DHHS in their wisdom have decided to return a child the grand mother has been lovingly caring and providing for, for the past 9 years minus 3 months. This child was handed to her at 3 months of age, severely malnourished and suffering from severe neglect. This child was born addicted to drugs. As such this child has many challenges ahead and DHHS have forced him to be returned to his birth mother whom he has had minimal contact with in his short 9 years. She is currently awaiting serious criminal charges and on a methadone program, living with a male who is known to have guns, hunting knives and a history of violent behaviour. There was NO consultation with the Grandmother by DHHS, as even though she has put her heart and soul into providing for and raising this gorgeous child over the last 9 years. SHE has no rights! This is true for all unrecognised kinship carers. THIS IS the 3rd case in Victoria this past week where DHHS have removed a child from a secure home and ‘reunified’ them with people they DON’T know, their biological parents. This needs to be addressed and it needs attention NOW. Please help us change a broken and harsh system where the rights of the children and carers come last.