Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled), is in the care of someone who is not the parent or a close relative. A close relative includes a parent, step-parent grandparent, auntie, uncle or an older sibling. It also includes someone related to the above by marriage.

If the child is being cared for by someone other than those listed above and the arrangement has been made without the involvement of the Local Authority, and that arrangement is going to continue for 28 consecutive days or more, the Local Authority must be informed.

It is important to emphasise that this does not mean that the arrangement cannot continue; only that the Local Authority must have oversight of the arrangements to ensure that the child’s needs are being adequately addressed and that the carers are able, and if necessary supported, to meet the required standards of care.

While many private fostering arrangements are appropriate and in the best interest of the child, it must also be recognised that sometimes these arrangements are extremely dangerous, involve criminality and exploitation, and some have resulted in significant harm to the child.

Sometimes the private fostering arrangement involves children who have been brought to the UK from other countries. They may be completely unknown to statutory services and, if the child is in the UK illegally, they will lack the necessary rights and protections that children should have.

If we become aware of children living in a private fostering arrangement, we must notify the Local Authority where the conditions above have been met.