Private Fostering
Looking after somebody else’s child? – know the
rules…
If you are looking after somebody else’s child
who isn’t an immediate family member, for longer than 28
days, the law says that you must tell the Council.
Those living or working in Bedford
Borough or Central Bedfordshire should contact
the private fostering team if you have, or know of someone,
who has arranged privately to look after a child for 28 days or
more.
The team's private fostering co-ordinator will
meet the people caring for the child, the parents and the child to
ensure that they are safe and their needs are being met. They
will also offer any support or help that may be required.
Private fostering arrangements apply to young
people under the age of 16, or under 18 if disabled, who are being
cared for by someone who isn’t an immediate family member i.e. a
grandparent, brother, sister, uncle aunt or step-parent. This
does not apply to children in care.
Cllr Sue Oliver, Portfolio Holder for
Children’s Social Care at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Private
fostering arrangements can provide an invaluable support for many
young people. So without complicating matters, we simply want to
remind people that in these circumstances, it is vital that the
parent or the private foster carer, or others who are aware of the
arrangement, let us know.”
To find out more about private fostering or to
let us know about a private fostering arrangement call 0300
300 8181 or visit http://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/