Private Fostering Week

Private Fostering Week began today (20 February), highlighting the thousands of cases of private fostering across the country.

Private fostering is an arrangement where a child is cared for by somebody who is not their parent or a close relative, for a period of 28 days or more.

According to Department of Education statistics, there were 1,649 children in private fostering arrangements in March 2011. Around 68% of children who are privately fostered are between the ages of 10 and 15.

One private fosterer, who did not want to be named, explained a little about his experience:

“Our family decided to private foster when a friend was having problems coping with supporting their child. We have a young son about the same age, and they were already mates, so it made sense that he should come to live with us.

“It’s been almost a year now and although it was tough for him at first, he understood that it had to happen.

“The change in him has been unbelievable. Before he was never in school, now his attendance is up 100% and he’s been moved up in class. He’s also joined the cadets, and has started boxing.”

Sheila Clarke, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Lifelong Learning added: “Private Fostering Week draws attention to an issue that affects thousands of children in the UK.

“I would urge anyone who thinks they may be a private foster carer or who is planning to become one to contact the Council to ensure the correct arrangements are in place and to see what support we can provide.”

Wirral Council is responsible for ensuring that Private Fostering arrangements are safe, suitable and properly supported. If you are thinking of becoming a private foster carer, you must inform the Council 6 weeks before the arrangement begins, or, in an emergency, 24 hours before.