What is Private Fostering?

Private fostering is when parents agree for a child to be cared for by someone other than themselves – or close relatives – for 28 days or more.

If a child is to be fostered privately you must let us know at least six weeks before or get in touch within 48 hours in an emergency. We will monitor private foster placements to safeguard children against abuse or neglect.

Parents keep parental and financial responsibility for any children being privately fostered.

Find out more about Fostering in Knowsley or contact Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 0151 443 2600

Some useful links:

See leaflets for more information:

Private Fostering – A guide for Professionals

Private Fostering – A Guide for parents and carers_

Private Fostering – Children YP

Access the following link for resources and a video describing Private Fostering: http://www.privatefostering.org.uk/profs/video