Trust supports Calderdale Council’s safeguarding children campaign

The Trust is supporting a campaign set up by Calderdale Council to encourage people looking after someone else’s child – also known as private fostering – to let the council know if they aren’t already aware.

Private fostering is when a child or young person under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled) 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. Close relatives are defined as step-parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, uncles or aunts (whether of full blood, half blood or marriage).

In these circumstances, it is the responsibility of the parent, carer, any anyone else involved in making the private fostering arrangement, to notify their local authority of the private fostering arrangement.

If you know of a child being privately fostered, it is a legal requirement that the parent/carer informs their local council. If appropriate, speak to the parent or carer, alternatively contact Calderdale Council directly by telephoning their first response team on 01422 393336. By contacting the council you will make sure that the child or young person is safe and supported and the private foster carer has all the information they need.

If you are worried that a child or young person is being harmed or at risk of harm please get in touch with Calderdale Council on 01422 353279. For more information about private fostering, please visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/socialcare/family/private-fostering/