Private fostering

Private fostering is a private arrangement made between a parent and a responsible adult for the care of a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled). The person who will be looking after the child is not a parent or close relative of the child, and the arrangement is planned to last for at least 28 days. 

Private foster carers may be from the extended family such as a cousin or great aunt. A private foster carer may be a friend of the family, the parent of a friend of the child, or someone previously unknown to the child’s family who is willing to privately foster the child. 

The period for which the child is cared for and accommodated by the private foster carer should be continuous but can include the occasional short break. The local authority in which the private foster carer lives must be notified of the arrangement. 

This section provides members with supplementary materials to develop their knowledge and practice for their work with privately fostered children, their carers and parents. Our range of resources include references, legal notes and material for raising awareness and working with private fostering arrangements. If you have more complex queries you should contact our Member Advice Line.

Private Fostering Awareness Day 2024

Set aside 6 November 2024 and add it to your diary - join us for our second Private Fostering Awareness Day!

Questions and guidance

Latest publications