What is “Private Fostering”?

Private Fostering is when a child under 16 (or under 18 if they have a disability) lives with someone other than a parent (or other person with legal Parental Responsibility) or a close relative (grandparent, aunt/uncle, brother, sister) or a step-parent, for a period that is intended to last more than 28 days.

A Private Fostering arrangement is a private agreement made between the parent and the adult who is offering to care for the child.

When a child is privately fostered, the parent retains parental and financial responsibility for the child. The law states that the parent must notify the Local Authority of the arrangement, and it is an offence not to do so.

Private fostering situations could include:

• Children or young people who are sent to this country by birth parents from overseas.
• Children or young people who are living with a friend’s family as a result of difficulties at home.
• Teenagers living with the family of their partner.                   

The Children Act 1989 and the Children (Private Arrangements for Fostering) Regulations 2005 require the Local Authority to promote and safeguard the welfare of privately foster children.

As a result, the Local Authority is required to visit the placement regularly. If the care provided to the child is not adequate, the Local Authority has the power to intervene.

Although parents and private fosterers are required by law to notify the Local Authority, in reality, they do not always do this. As a result, it is often a professional who will first become aware that a child is being privately fostered, and as a result, they also have a duty to notify the Local Authority.

If you become aware of a Private Fostering Arrangement that may not be known to the Local Authority, you have a duty to ring Social Care Direct on 0845 850 3503.

Notifying the Local Authority ensures that they can:

• Carry out safeguarding checks.
• Monitor the arrangements to ensure the child’s needs are met.
• Listen to the young persons wishes and feelings.
• Provide support services where needed.

If you require any further information about Private Fostering, please contact WDSCB on 01924 302625 or at wdscb@wakefield.gov.uk

If you wish to speak to someone about an individual case that you think may be covered by the regulations, please contact Social Care Direct.