Are you a private foster carer?

Make sure you’re registered with the Council

Are you looking after children whose parents work away from home – or do you know someone who is?

Has a neighbour had trouble coping with a new baby and asked you to look after him or her for a few weeks?

Perhaps friends from abroad have asked you to let their child stay with you while he or she attends school here? If so, this could be private fostering.

Private fostering is the term used when a parent or person holding parental rights and responsibilities places a child under school leaving age, for a month or more, in the care of someone else who is not a close relative or an officially approved foster carer.

Private fostering can make a positive contribution to children’s lives. However, many parents are unaware that if they place their child in someone else’s care they have a legal responsibility to inform their local authority. The carer has a similar duty.

Social services need to check that any child placed in private foster care is safe, happy and getting the support they need.

Someone will come and talk to you to make sure the child is well cared for. Certain information will be required, such as a Police check.

Because many people are unaware of the regulations, the Council has begun a major campaign, aiming to make everyone aware of what private fostering means and the responsibilities involved.

Need to know

For more information, contact Children and Families Social Care Direct on 0131 200 2327 or visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk