Private fostering
Local authorities throughout Britain are aware that there are children living within a private fostering arrangement. The process is legal.
A privately fostered child is a "child under 16 years (or if disabled, under 18 years of age) and is looked after for more than 28 days, 24 hour care by an adult who is not an immediate blood relative. The arrangements are made privately between parent and private foster carer".
Lambeth Council does not want to get in the way of private fostering arrangements but we have a duty to ensure that the welfare of the child is promoted and safeguarded.
Have you arranged for your child to live with someone else?
Although private fostering arrangements are private, local authorities have certain legal duties and responsibilities to make sure that children who are privately fostered are protected.
If you have arranged for your child to be looked after by someone else you must notify the private fostering Service who will be able to provide support. Read more advice for parents.
Information on legal definitions of privately fostered children.
Information for children who are in private foster care arrangements.
Information about community member responsibilities in regard to private fostering of children.
Information for parents of children in private fostering arrangements.
Information for private foster carers about their responsibilities and how we can support them.
Information on what to do if there is a change in a private foster care arrangement.
Information about formal agreements for private foster care arrangements.
Information about Lambeth Council's responsibilities in regard to private fostering of children.