Private fostering

Private fostering is when a child or young person under the age of 16 (or under age 18 if the child or young person is disabled) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a 'close relative' for 28 days or more. This is a private arrangement made between a parent and a carer.

Who is not a close relative?

If your child is being looked after by one of the above for more than 28 days this IS a private fostering arrangement and you need to tell Warrington Borough Council Childrens Social Care.

Close relatives are:

So if your child is being looked after by a close relative in the list above it is NOT a private fostering arrangement.

Why might a child or young person be privately fostered?

There are many reasons why parents sometimes arrange for their child to live with someone else. For example;

• children coming from abroad to access the education and health systems
• children living with a friend's family after separation, divorce or arguments at home
• teenagers living with the family of a boyfriend or girlfriend
• people who come to this country to study or work, but antisocial hours make it difficult for them to care for their own children
• Sometimes it's the young person themselves who chooses to live elsewhere and their parents do not object.

There are many reasons why a parent may be unable to look after their child full time. Such as:

• being admitted to hospital
• going abroad for lengthy periods
• a breakdown in relationship between a parent and young person

What do I do if my child is being privately fostered?

If you are a parent or a private foster carer arranging for a child to be privately fostered you must contact us Warrington Borough Council Childrens Social Care ideally with notice.

Email childreferral@warrington.gov.uk  with basic details about the arrangement or call 01925 443400.

You must contact Warrington Borough Council Childrens Social Care immediately if:

• you are already looking after someone else's child
• If you intend to look after someone else's child for more than 28 days
• If you know of someone who is looking after someone else's child in a private fostering arrangement

Why do I need to contact Childrens Social Care?

Children Social Care will have a duty to make sure that

• The child or young person is safeguarded and their welfare is being promoted and met
• The child or young person is receiving an appropriate level of care
• The child or young person, carers and parents receive appropriate support or training

What will happen next?

Within seven days, a social worker will visit the carer and child, and contact the parent.

For further information on what happens next can be found on the Warrington Borough Council website