THURROCK Council is raising awareness of private fostering arrangements and sharing why it is important to let the authority know if you are in one.

Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (or under 18 if they are disabled) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a 'close relative' for 28 days or more.

Examples of private foster carers could include a family friend, a great aunt or great-grandparent, family friends of the child or a more distant relative.

Legally, any parent or carer who is in a private fostering arrangement must let Thurrock Council know of their intention to care for a child at least six weeks in advance, or in emergency cases within four hours of the child's arrival.

This is so the authority can carry out essential welfare checks and provide support services if required. 

Cllr Vikki Hartstean, cabinet member for children's services, education and community safety, said: "If you think you may be in a private fostering arrangement, or know someone who is, it is so important that you let us know so we can carry out checks on the child's welfare and make sure all the necessary support is available to help care for them." 

The council is hosting a private fostering workshop on Microsoft Teams on Thursday 13 November from 10am to 12pm to share some more information and answer any questions you may have. To book a space, or to get advice, please email: [email protected] 

For more information on private fostering, visit: https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/private-fostering/