Modern-day pressures on families can lead to children being looked after by people who are not their parents or close relatives - an arrangement known as Private Fostering.
Private Fostering Week starts next Monday (21st) and people are being reminded that they need to let the council know, by law, if they are looking after someone under the age of 16 in these circumstances, as the council has a duty to make sure that the child’s welfare needs are being met.
Councillor David Renard, Swindon Borough Council cabinet member for Children’s Services said: “Private foster carers can do a great deal to help children through the pressures or difficulties within families that can lead to disruption of the family home.
“The council just needs to know where these arrangements exist, so we can make sure everyone, including the carers, is supported.”
There are 15 children under 16 who are currently being privately fostered in Swindon, although it is likely there are more the council is unaware of.
Common examples of how private fostering arrangements can develop are:
A teenager who has a difficult relationship with his or her parents and goes to live with a friend’s family, or a more distant relative such as a cousin or great aunt;
Parents who pay for someone to care for their children while they are away working or studying;
Children who are sent from abroad to live with other families in the UK;
Children placed with a family friend or parent’s partner as a result of a parent having a prolonged stay in hospital.
Council staff working in education and health also have a duty to let the council know of any private fostering arrangement that comes to their attention.
Anyone who needs advice or guidance about private fostering should ring (01793) 466903, Monday to Friday, between 9am to 5pm.