If you care for someone else’s child for 28 days or more, this may be classed as a private fostering arrangement.
What is private fostering?
Private fostering is when a child under 16 (or under 18 if disabled) lives with someone who is not a close relative, such as:
- a family friend
- a boyfriend or girlfriend’s family
- a host family from abroad
This arrangement is made privately between the parent and carer, without involvement from us.
It does not include short-term stays such as weekend or holiday visits.
Could you be a private foster carer?
You may be in a private fostering arrangement if you answer yes to the following:
- Do you care for a child who is not closely related to you?
- Does the child live with you full-time?
- Is this a private arrangement between you and the child’s parent?
- Will the arrangement last for 28 days or more?
What should you do?
If you live in Hartlepool and are involved in a private fostering arrangement, you must notify us.
Contact the Children’s Hub team