Information for children and young people

Private fostering is when a child or young person under the age of 16 (or under 18 if disabled) is cared for, and provided with accommodation for 28 days or more, by an adult who is not a close relative.

Close relatives include aunts, uncles, step-parents, grandparents, brother and sisters. Cousins, great aunts and great uncles are not considered close relatives. 

Examples of private fostering

• You have been sent to this country for education or health care by your birth parents from another country.
• Your parents are from another country and work or study long and/or anti-social hours.
• You are living with a friend's family, because your parents are separated, divorced or argue at home.
• You are living with your partner's family.
• You attend a language school.
• You go to an independent boarding school but don't return home during the holidays, and you live with another carer who is not a close relative.

Who should you talk to?

If you think you may be living in a private fostering arrangement, tell someone you trust, such as your teacher or youth worker. They can let the council know, so we can find the best way to support you.