Drive to raise awareness of private fostering

Wiltshire Council is reaching out to those who are privately fostering children to encourage them to get in touch for help and support.

The council also urges local communities to get in touch if they suspect a child in their area is being cared for by someone who is not a relative.

Anyone caring for a child who is not a close family member for 28 days or more is considered a private foster carer. Many caregivers of children under 16 might not realise they fall under this category and may not know they need to inform Wiltshire Council about their situation.

The call to action coincides with Private Fostering Awareness Day on November 6, emphasising the importance of notifying Wiltshire Council about all children in private fostering arrangements.

If a child aged 16 or under (or under 18 with disabilities) is cared for by someone other than a close family member (parent, step-parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle) for 28 days or more, then they are deemed to be in private foster care.

Private foster care can be a very positive experience, but some children may be in a vulnerable position. Private fostering is arranged between parents and the private foster carer, and legally the parent and carer must notify the local authority so they can ensure the child is being properly cared for and can provide support where needed.

There are a number of reasons why children can be privately fostered. They can include teenagers living elsewhere because of a family breakdown, cultural exchange students, a child from overseas living with a host family while attending school, or overseas students at boarding school who stay with host families during the holidays, or any child whose parents have made a private arrangement for them to be cared for by somebody else.

Wiltshire Council offers support through dedicated staff in the Kinship and Fostering Team. A social worker will arrange an initial visit and speak to the carer and members of the household. There will be continuing support for the private foster carers and child and child’s parents.

Wiltshire Council is particularly asking people who work with children to be aware of private fostering arrangements among the children and families they work with, and to notify the council - although everybody has a part to play.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services said: “People may be looking after a young person and their dedication is admirable providing a home in this way. There is a legal obligation to let your local authority know and also we are here to provide advice and support you as you take on this important role of ensuring the child is safe and well cared for. We want families to come forward but also if you know of a private fostering arrangement, please let us know so we can ensure that support is in place. We all have a role to play in keeping our children safe.”

To notify Wiltshire Council of a private fostering arrangement, contact 0300 456 0108 for information on the support and advice available, or email integratedfrontdoor@wiltshire.gov.uk.