Somebody else's child

How to spot a privately fostered child - checklist

Do you know a child being privately fostered? Sometimes it can be hard to tell. Whether you’re a neighbour, teacher, nurse or anyone else who has contact with children there are some signs to look out for. Try our checklist to see if you would spot them.

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image of a young man and woman pushing a little boy on a swing

image of two young people

Resources

Here is a list of books for anyone supporting or caring for privately fostered children and young people.

A very private practice by Terry Philpot, BAAF 2001
Private fostering England and Wales (2006)
Private fostering - what it is and what it means A guide for children and young people

Legal requirements of private foster carers

To help us keep children safe and support families, all parents and private foster carers must notify the local council. If not, they miss out on essential welfare checks for the children, plus other support services.

These include:

Advice on claiming benefits and possible funding for some essential items
Parenting support and advice
Help in bringing families in crisis back together

If you know of a child being privately fostered please don’t ignore it. Speak to the child’s carer or inform your local council's private fostering team.

It is an offence not to notify the local council of a private fostering arrangement.