THURROCK Council is raising awareness of private fostering arrangements and encouraging parents and carers to let the authority know if they are involved in such an arrangement.

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.

A private foster carer could be a family friend, a great-aunt or great-grandparent, the parent of a child's friend, or another more distant relative.

Parents and carers have a legal responsibility to inform Thurrock Council about a private fostering arrangement. This should be done at least six weeks before the arrangement begins, or within 4 hours of the child's arrival if it is made in an emergency.

By notifying the council, families can access advice and support, while the council can carry out welfare checks to help ensure the child is safe, supported and receiving appropriate care.

Cllr Milena Bingley, cabinet member for Education, Skills and Children's Services, said: "Private fostering is often an arrangement made with the best intentions to support a child and their family, but many people are unaware that they have a legal duty to inform the council.

"By letting us know about a private fostering arrangement, we can make sure the child's wellbeing is protected and offer support and guidance to both the child and their carer. If you think you may be in a private fostering arrangement, or know someone who is, please get in touch with us."

For more information about private fostering and how to notify the council, visit: https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/private-fostering

Download our Nub News App!

- It’s FREE and available now
- Breaking news notifications
- Your Town in Your Pocket