What is Private Fostering?

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Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if they have a disability) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a close relative. This is a private arrangement made between a parent and a carer for 28 days or more.

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Close relatives are:

• step-parents

• grandparents

• brothers and sisters

• uncles or aunts (whether of full blood, half blood or marriage/civil partnership).

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Cousins, great aunts/uncles and family friends are not close relatives.

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It is a legal requirement to notify Dudley Council of a private fostering arrangement.

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For more information: Private Fostering Leaflet