This Private Fostering Awareness Day, Wednesday 5 November, Wiltshire Council is encouraging residents to consider whether they may be involved in a private fostering arrangement and to come forward for support if they are.

Private fostering occurs when a child or young person under 16 (or under 18 if disabled) lives with someone who is not a close relative for 28 days or more. This could include living with a family friend, a distant relative such as a cousin or great aunt, or a host family during extended educational stays. These arrangements are often made privately between parents and carers, but by law, the local authority must be informed.

Private fostering can arise for many reasons, such as a young person staying with a friend due to family difficulties, participating in a long-term school exchange, or attending a language school with a host family. While these arrangements can be positive, they may also leave children vulnerable if not properly monitored.

Many people may not realise they are private foster carers, especially if the arrangement feels informal or temporary. However, notifying Wiltshire Council is essential to ensure the child is safe, supported, and receiving the care they need.

Councillor Jon Hubbard, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “Private fostering arrangements can be a lifeline for children and families. We are here to support private foster carers and ensure that every child in our county receives the care and protection they deserve.

“Some people may not know what private fostering is, so we are keen to raise awareness. If your child is living with someone else, or if you are looking after a child who is not a close relative, please let us know. We don’t want to intervene unnecessarily, but we do want to ensure that all children are safe.”

Wiltshire Council can offer advice, support, and guidance to private foster carers and families to help ensure the wellbeing of the child. A close relative is defined as a grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling, or stepparent by marriage. If the carer does not fall into one of these categories, and the arrangement lasts more than 28 days, it is considered private fostering.

To notify Wiltshire Council of a private fostering arrangement, contact the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 0300 456 0108 who will advise on the support and advice available or email mash@wiltshire.gov.uk.

For more information visit: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/fostering-private-fostering.