Private Fostering

Private fostering involves an arrangement made without the involvement of the local authority between the carer and the child’s parent/s or person with parental responsibility, regardless of whether money is exchanged and that arrangement is intended to last 28 days or more (the child is not a Looked After Child).

Examples of Private Fostering are:

• Molly (14) has had an argument with her mother and has gone to stay with her friend Lilly. Lilly’s parents are willing to look after Molly. Molly does not intend to return home at this time as relationship with parents is severely broken down. This is a Private Fostering arrangement.
• Dan (16) has a learning difficulty. His relationship with his parents has broken down and they have asked him to leave. Dan is staying with his girlfriend’s family who are willing to look after him long-term. This is a Private Fostering arrangement.
• Mya (2) is living with her great aunt. Mya’s mother has significant mental health issues and is unable to provide care to Mya and has made this arrangement to keep Mya safe. This is a Private Fostering arrangement.
• Caroline (14) is a student from China. She has come to the UK to attend an English school and take her exams. Caroline will remain with her host family for one year. This is a Private Fostering arrangement.

As you can see from the examples above (taken from previous cases) Private Fostering is wide ranging and can happen to children and young people of all ages. If you think you have identified an arrangement please call us on 02392 834071 and ask to speak to Aimee or Koren or contact Portsmouth MASH to discuss further.  For further information please download the factsheet here.