Long Ridings Primary School

What is Private Fostering?
Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (or under 18 if they have a disability) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a close relative for 28 days or more. This arrangement is made privately, without the involvement of the local authority.

Why is Awareness Important?
Many people, including professionals working with children, are unaware of the legal requirement to notify the local authority of private fostering arrangements. This lack of awareness can mean that children are not receiving the support and safeguarding they may need.

How You Can Help:
We are asking organisations like yours to help us:

• Share information about private fostering with staff, volunteers, and service users.
• Display posters or leaflets in public areas.
• Include a short message in newsletters or on your website.
• Encourage anyone involved in a private fostering arrangement to notify the local authority.

If you would like resources, such as posters, leaflets, or digital content, we would be happy to provide them.

Thank you for your support in helping us protect and support children and young people in private fostering arrangements.