Find out what private fostering is and how to tell us that a child is being privately fostered.
Private fostering is when a child under 16 (under 18 if they are disabled) lives with someone who is not a close relative for 28 days or more.
A close relative includes:
The law says that the council must be informed about all private foster care arrangements. This helps us to make sure that all children and young people are safe, happy and doing well and that they (and their carers) are given advice and support to meet their needs.
Contact us as soon as you become aware that your child will be staying with someone who is not a close relative for 28 days or more. The legal requirement is to inform us at least 6 weeks before the child starts living in the private foster carer’s home (or immediately if the arrangement is already in place).
Foster carers, or anyone else involved in the arrangement are also legally required to let us know.
Privately fostered children are particularly vulnerable, as the arrangements for their care are often made at a time when families are under a lot of stress. It is vital privately fostered children's situations are assessed to ensure their suitability and that the welfare of privately fostered children is actively monitored and promoted.
Once contacted we will:
In cases where we do not agree with a private fostering arrangement we have the power to disqualify a person from privately fostering.
Find out, if you can, whether your parent or the person looking after you has told the local council. If you are worried you can speak to a teacher, or another adult you trust.
Check whether the parent or carer has informed us. If not, let us know.
Contact Front Door for Families about a child living in a private fostering arrangement.
Tell us if you are worried about a child or refer a child or family to Best Start Family Hubs for early help and support.
You need to complete a form for guardianship agencies and host families.
Download the private fostering form for guardianship agencies, host families and language schools
Any one who comes into contact with the child and is aware that they are privately fostered has a duty to inform the local authority.
This may include:
By notifying us, you will be helping to safeguard a child or young person.
If you think you know a child who is being privately fostered, contact Front Door for Families.
For more information, read our private fostering booklet (PDF 532KB).