Private fostering occurs when a parent arranges for a child to be cared for by someone other than a parent or a close relative for 28 days or longer. Although this will usually be a continuous period this is not always the case
A close relative means either, a step-parent, grandparent, brother, sister, aunt or uncle - either by blood or marriage. A child in this context is anyone under the age of 16 or a disabled young person under 18.
All private fostering arrangements must be reported to Doncaster City Council. In principle this should be before the arrangement is made but if this has not happened they should be reported as soon as practicable.
- What does Doncaster Council do?
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When private fostering happens it is Doncaster Council's responsibility to:
- Assess the suitability of the private foster carers.
- Make regular visits to the child. Monitor the overall standard of care.
- Ensure that advice to carers, parents and the child is made available when needed.
- What you should do?
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Many professionals who work in education, health, social care or who come into contact with children and families may identify private fostering arrangements. They have a duty to:
- Encourage the parent/carer to report the private fostering arrangement.
- Provide information about private fostering.
- Report the arrangement if the parent or carer fails to
Tel: 01302 737789
Email: fostering&adoption@doncaster.gov.uk
Published 1st May 2024