Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a 'close relative'. This is a private arrangement made between a parent and a carer, for 28 days or more. Close relatives are defined as step-parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, uncles or aunts (whether of full blood, half blood or marriage/affinity).
From 1st July, 2005 The Children (Private Arrangements for Fostering) Regulations replaced the previous regulations concerning private fostering in England.
Professionals who work with children have a duty to notify the Council of any private fostering arrangements they know of. The following links provide more information about Private Fostering, the legal requirements and support for professionals working with families:-
The British Association for Adoption and Fostering - http://www.baaf.org.uk/
The British Association for Adoption and Fostering have their own dedicated website specifically focused on Private Fostering - http://www.privatefostering.org.uk/
Fostering Information Line - http://www.fostering.org.uk/information/private_fostering.html
The Children (Private Arrangements for Fostering) Regulations 2005 - http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1533/contents/made
