Release Date: 16/05/2008
A reminder to private foster carers that they must, by law, tell the borough’s fostering team of their arrangements has been issued by Richmond Council.
The Council has a legal duty to ensure that all children who are being cared for in the local area are safe and well looked after.
Anyone who is or will be privately fostering a child for more than 28 days, must notify the Council.
A private fostering arrangement is made between a child’s parent and a family friend or person who has volunteered to care for the child, independently of the council. It applies to any child or young person under 16 or under 18 if they are disabled.
People should contact the Council at least six weeks in advance of the child arriving, or in an emergency, no more than 48 hours after the child arrives. They should also advise within 48 hours when the child leaves their care and who the child’s new carer will be.
The Council will then arrange for a social worker to visit the child and carer at home and carry out an assessment. They will also carry out checks with the police and other agencies to ensure the foster carer is suitable.
Cllr Malcolm Eady, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Education on Richmond Council, said:
“There are many people who play an invaluable role in the community, caring for children who cannot live with their own family.
“The vast majority of carers are doing a great job. However we are concerned that despite the law some private fostering arrangements are unknown to the Council.
“I would urge people to get in touch with us so we can make sure the child in their care is safe, healthy and given every opportunity to reach their full potential.
“In return, we offer vital support and advice to carers about matters such as the child’s health, education and a range of other services.”
To advise of a private fostering arrangement or for further information, please contact the Council’s Initial Response Team on 020 8891 7969.