Page reportSummary
Page Layout
Display issue details:
The line numbers refer to lines in the original source. Any with a line number of '0' are implicit tags added by Total Validator:
1 <!doctype html>
2 <html lang="en">
3 <head>
4 <meta charset="utf-8">
12 
E916 [WCAG21 1.4.4 (AA)] Do not use 'viewport' settings which prevent the user from zooming in:
Using 'user-scalable=no' or 'maximum-scale' with a value less than 2.0 may prevent people with sight difficulties from being able to 'zoom in' to pages to read them. See Understanding 1.4.4. <meta name='viewport' content='width=device-width, initial-scale=1, maximum-scale=1'>
12 <title>
12 Private Fostering
12 </title>
13 <link href='css/css.php' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' id="main_style"/>
14 <link rel='shortcut icon' href='images/favicon.ico' type='image/x-icon'/>
16 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" href="images/apple-touch-icon-57x57-precomposed.png" />
17 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="72x72" href="images/apple-touch-icon-72x72-precomposed.png" />
18 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="114x114" href="images/apple-touch-icon-114x114-precomposed.png" />
20 <meta name="application-name" content="Private Fostering" />
21 <meta name="msapplication-TileColor" content="#301880" />
22 <meta name="msapplication-square70x70logo" content="images/smalltile.png" />
23 <meta name="msapplication-square150x150logo" content="images/mediumtile.png" />
24 <meta name="msapplication-wide310x150logo" content="images/widetile.png" />
25 <meta name="msapplication-square310x310logo" content="images/largetile.png" />
29 <link href='normal.css' id='switch_style' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css'>
32 <link rel='stylesheet' media='(max-width: 1100px)' href='css/colours_mobile.css' />
36 <link href='css/print.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' media='print'>
37 <link href='css/print_colours.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' media='print'>
39 <script src="scripts/print.js">
39 </script>
40 <script src="scripts/jquery-1.6.4.min.js">
40 </script>
41 <script src="scripts/jquery-dateFormat.min.js">
41 </script>
42 <script src="scripts/js.cookie.js">
42 </script>
43 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/highlight.js">
43 </script>
44 <script src='https://www.google.com/recaptcha/api.js'>
44 </script>
45 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/jquery.js">
45 </script>
46 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/pageOrganizer.js">
46 </script>
47 <script>
54 </script>
116 <style>
117 #new_print {
118 display:block;
119 }
120 #old_print {
121 display:none;
122 }
123 </style>
131 <style>
132 ol {
133 counter-reset: item;
134 z-index:-1;
135 }
136 ol li.sub_list {
137 display: block;
138 position: relative;
139 }
140 ol li.sub_list:before {
141 content: counters(item, ".")".";
142 counter-increment: item;
143 position: absolute;
144 margin-right: 100%;
145 right: 3px;
146 }
147 ol li.remove_bullet:before {
148 P908 [WCAG21 1.3.1 (A)] Do not insert content using CSS:
Content inserted using CSS may not appear when CSS is turned off, or the user is using their own accessible style sheet. See WCAG 2.1 Failure F87. content:"\ \ \ ";
149 display:none;
150 }
151 </style>
155 <style>
156 .remove_bullet {
157 list-style:none;
158 }
159 </style>
183 </head>
184 <body onLoad="if (document.getElementById('zoom_searchbox'))
{document.getElementById('zoom_searchbox').focus();}">
186 <div id="skip">
186 <a href="#main_content" class="section_links">
186 Skip navigation to sections
186 </a>
186 </div>
187 <div id="cookie_bar">
187 We use cookies to track usage and preferences.
187 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/privacy-policy#cookies">
187 View our Cookie Policy
187 </a>
187 <div id="cookie_agree">
187 I Accept
187 </div>
187 </div>
190 <div id="head_bar">
192 <header>
193 <div id="grey_bar">
194 <div id="logo_holder">
195 <img src="images/client_logo.png" height="85" alt="Bexley Logo"/>
196 </div>
196 </div>
198 <div id="title">
199 <h1>
199 Bexley
199 <span id="h1_sub">
199 Children's Services Procedures Manual
199 </span>
199 </h1>
201 </div>
205 <div id="access_holder">
205 <div id="access_text_hold" onclick="location.href='accessibility.html';">
205 <a href="accessibility.html">
205 Accessibility
205 </a>
205 </div>
205 </div>
206 </header>
207 </div>
208 <nav>
210 <div id="sticky_navigation_wrapper">
211 <div id="sticky_navigation">
212 <div id="demo_container">
213 <div id="menu_toggle">
213 <img src="images/menu_white.png" id="drop_menu_button" height="20" alt="Menu toggle for
Mobile"/>
214 </div>
216 <div id="menu_items">
217 <ul>
218 <li>
218 <a href="index.html">
218 Home
218 </a>
218 </li>
219 <li>
219 <a href="contents.html">
219 Contents
219 </a>
219 </li>
220 <li class="dropdownmenu" id="doubletap1">
221 E958 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] The 'aria-haspopup' attribute is not allowed in this context:
The ARIA specification only allows certain 'aria-...' attributes to be used with certain roles. See ARIA 1.2. <a class="toplink" href="menu.html" aria-haspopup="true">
221 Resources
221 <b>
221 ▾
221 </b>
221 </a>
222 <ul id="port_drop1" aria-label="submenu">
223 <li>
223 <a href="local_resources.html" tabindex="-1">
223 Policy Update
223 </a>
223 </li>
224 <li>
224 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_key/index.htm" target="_blank"
tabindex="-1">
224 Glossary
224 </a>
224 </li>
225 <li>
225 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_cont/index.htm"
target="_blank" tabindex="-1">
225 Contacts
225 </a>
225 </li>
226 </ul>
227 </li>
228 <li>
228 <a href="using_this_manual.html">
228 Using this Manual
228 </a>
228 </li>
229 <li>
229 <a href="http://www.londoncp.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
229 London Child Protection Procedures
229 </a>
229 </li>
231 </ul>
232 </div>
236 <div id="search">
236 <div id="search_contents">
237 E910 [WCAG21 1.4.4 (AA)] Use relative rather than absolute units:
Using relative units helps the page to be rendered correctly at different resolutions and allows people with sight difficulties to 'zoom in' to pages to read them. See Understanding 1.4.4. <form method="get" action="search_site.php" style="font-size:10px;">
239 <div id="input_holder">
241 W889 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] Avoid using accessible names created from fallback attributes:
An accessible name generated from 'title', 'placeholder' or default values for <input> buttons, typically yields a low quality accessible name. Instead use the recommended way of setting the accessible name for this element. See Avoid Fallback, and Accessible Name Computation. <input type="text" name="zoom_query" placeholder="Search Manual" spellcheck="true" title="search"
class="search_bar">
242 </div>
243 <div id="mag_holder">
244 <input class="imagelink" type="image" src="images/mag_white.png" id="mag_glass"
height="25" alt="Search" title="Search">
246 </div>
246 </form>
246 </div>
246 </div>
248 </div>
251 </div>
253 </div>
258 </nav>
259 <div id="main_content" tabindex="-1">
260 <main>
263 <div id="print_watermark">
263 This document is only valid 72 hours after printing
263 <script>
263 </script>
263 . For the latest version please visit
263 <noscript>
263 the online manual.
263 </noscript>
263 <script>
263 </script>
263 </div>
265 <div id="chapter_title">
268 <div id="print_holder">
272 <div id="new_print">
272 <a onClick="window.print();" tabindex="0" class="imagelink" href="#">
272 <img id="print_img" src="images/print_black.png" height="30" alt="Click here to print"/>
272 </a>
272 </div>
276 <div id="old_print">
276 <form id="printMe" name="printMe">
276 <input class="imagelink" name="printMe" type="image" onclick="printSpecial()"
id="print_img_ie" src="images/print_black.png" height="30" width="33" alt="Print this
page" title="Print Button">
276 </form>
276 </div>
279 </div>
282 <h2>
282 Private Fostering
282 </h2>
284 </div>
287 <div id="scope_box">
288 <h3>
288 SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
288 </h3>
289 <p>
289 This procedure applies to children who are cared for by people other than their parent or close
relative for more than 27 days and who are NOT subject to any order or arrangement that would
place them in the care of the local authority.
289 </p>
290 <h3>
290 AMENDMENT
290 </h3>
291 <p>
291 This chapter was amended in October 2019. It confirms in
291 <a href="#after_plac">
291 Section 14, After the Private Fostering Arrangement Ends
291 </a>
291 that any request for support by the young person should be made to the local authority in which
they are resident or where the education and training is being provided.
291 </p>
292 </div>
293 <div id="sections">
295 <h3 id="sections_list">
295 Contents
295 </h3>
296 <ol>
297 <li>
297 <a href="#definition">
297 Definition
297 </a>
297 </li>
298 <li>
298 <a href="#note_la">
298 Notifications to the Local Authority
298 </a>
298 </li>
299 <li>
299 <a href="#act_rec_not">
299 Action to be Taken on Receipt of Notification
299 </a>
299 </li>
300 <li>
300 <a href="#init_vis">
300 Initial Visit to Private Foster Carers
300 </a>
300 </li>
301 <li>
301 <a href="#asst_fc">
301 Assessment of Private Foster Carers
301 </a>
301 </li>
302 <li>
302 <a href="#fin_supp">
302 Financial Support for Private Foster Carers
302 </a>
302 </li>
303 <li>
303 <a href="#impose_req">
303 Imposing Requirements on Private Foster Carers
303 </a>
303 </li>
304 <li>
304 <a href="#limit">
304 Limit on Number of Children
304 </a>
304 </li>
305 <li>
305 <a href="#prohib_disq">
305 Prohibition and Disqualification
305 </a>
305 </li>
306 <li>
306 <a href="#noncomop">
306 Non-compliance with Requirements
306 </a>
306 </li>
307 <li>
307 <a href="#visits_home">
307 Visits to the Private Foster Carers Home - Frequency, Purpose and Records
307 </a>
307 </li>
308 <li>
308 <a href="#revfc">
308 Review of Private Foster Carers
308 </a>
308 </li>
309 <li>
309 <a href="#lafc_private">
309 Local Authority Foster Carers who Privately Foster
309 </a>
309 </li>
310 <li>
310 <a href="#after_plac">
310 After the Private Fostering Arrangement Ends
310 </a>
310 </li>
311 </ol>
312 <h3 id="definition">
312 1. Definition
312 </h3>
313 <p>
313 A privately fostered child is a child under 16 (or 18 if Disabled) who is cared for by an adult
who is not a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, step parent (including civil partnerships), sister
or brother where the child is to be cared for in that person's home for 28 days or more.
313 </p>
314 <p>
314 A child who is Looked After or placed in any residential home, hospital or school (where they are
receiving full-time education) is excluded from the definition. In a private fostering
arrangement, the parent retains Parental Responsibility.
314 </p>
315 <p>
315 However, Children under 16 who spend more than 2 weeks in residence during holiday time in a
school where they are a pupil, become privately fostered children for the purposes of the
legislation during that holiday period.
315 </p>
316 (
316 <span class="bold">
316 Note
316 </span>
316 : the local authority may exempt any person from giving written notice either for a specified period
or indefinitely. This exemption may be revoked in writing at any time).
317 <h3 id="note_la">
317 2. Notifications to the Local Authority
317 </h3>
318 <p>
318 Where a child is to be placed with private foster carers, the local authority must be notified in
writing at least 6 weeks before an arrangement begins. Where no prior notification of a placement
is given, private foster carers must notify the local authority of the placement immediately.
318 </p>
319 <p>
319 The person making the notification should be asked to provide the following information:
319 </p>
320 <ol>
321 <li>
321 The name, gender, date and place of birth and address of the child;
321 </li>
322 <li>
322 The racial origin, cultural and linguistic background and religion of the child;
322 </li>
323 <li>
323 The names and address of the person giving the notice and any previous address within the last
five years;
323 </li>
324 <li>
324 The name and addresses of the child's parents and any previous addresses within the last 5
years;
324 </li>
325 <li>
325 If different, the name and address of the person from whom the child was or is to be received;
325 </li>
326 <li>
326 The name and address of the private foster carers and any previous addresses within the last 5
years;
326 </li>
327 <li>
327 The name and address of any other person who is involved in making the arrangement;
327 </li>
328 <li>
328 The name and address of any siblings of the child who are under 18, and the current arrangements
for their care;
328 </li>
329 <li>
329 The purpose and likely duration of the arrangement;
329 </li>
330 <li>
330 The intended date when the child is to be placed with the private foster carers or the date when
the placement began;
330 </li>
331 </ol>
332 <p>
332 In relation to notifications given by the private foster carer or proposed private foster carer,
the following information should also be obtained:
332 </p>
333 <ul>
334 <li>
334 Any offence of which they or any other member of the household has been convicted;
334 </li>
335 <li>
335 Any disqualification or prohibition (see
335 <a href="#prohib_disq">
335 Section 9, Prohibition and Disqualification
335 </a>
335 ) placed on them or any other member of the household;
335 </li>
336 <li>
336 Any actions taken or orders made in relation to the private foster carer or any child who is or
was a member of the same household.
336 </li>
337 </ul>
338 <p>
338 Written notification must also be made to the local authority by the private foster carer within
48 hours of any change in circumstances, e.g. a change of address, a change in the household, a
criminal conviction/disqualification or prohibition (see
338 <a href="#prohib_disq">
338 Section 9, Prohibition and Disqualification
338 </a>
338 ) in relation to any person in the household or any intention to foster another child privately.
338 </p>
339 <p>
339 Where notification is that the private foster carers have moved to live in the area of another
local authority, the social worker must immediately pass to the new authority the name and address
of the private foster carer, the name of the child being privately fostered, the name and address
of the child's parents.
339 </p>
340 <p>
340 Where notification is that the placement has ended, the social worker should ascertain the name
and address of the person now caring for the child and their relationship with the child.
340 </p>
341 <p>
341 Parents also have a duty to notify the local authority in writing of the ending of the placement
including the name and address of the person into whose care the child has moved.
341 </p>
342 <p>
342 Any agency that becomes aware of a private fostering arrangement must immediately notify the local
authority in writing of the arrangement and must inform the parent and private foster carer of
their intention to do so.
342 </p>
343 <h3 id="act_rec_not">
343 3. Action to be Taken on Receipt of Notification
343 </h3>
344 <p>
344 When notification or information is received from any source that a child is privately fostered,
this information must be passed to Children's Services office where the privately fostered child
resides.
344 </p>
345 <p>
345 A social worker will be allocated to carry out the following initial tasks within one week of the
notification:
345 </p>
346 <ol>
347 <li>
347 Visit the private foster carers in the home where the child is to live and speak to them and all
members of the household;
347 </li>
348 <li>
348 Visit and speak to the child alone, unless the social worker considers it inappropriate to do so
in which case the reason should be recorded and brought to the attention of the team manager;
348 </li>
349 <li>
349 Speak to and if possible visit the parents;
349 </li>
350 <li>
350 Ensure that the purpose and likely duration of the private fostering arrangement is understood
by and agreed between the parents and the private foster carers,
350 </li>
351 <li>
351 Ascertain the wishes and feelings of the child about the private fostering arrangement;
351 </li>
352 <li>
352 Check the suitability of the accommodation, the capacity of the private foster carer to look
after the child, the suitability of other members of the private foster carer's household;
352 </li>
353 <li>
353 Ensure that the parents are involved in planning for the child and explore whether the
child's needs may be more appropriately met by providing services to the child and parent at
home;
353 </li>
354 <li>
354 Encourage the parents to draw up a written agreement (it may be helpful to use a Placement
Information Record as a guide) with the private foster carers as to their respective
expectations and responsibilities in relation to the fostering arrangement including financial
arrangements and the child's contact with their parents and other significant family members;
354 </li>
355 <li>
355 Where the child has already been placed, ensure that the child's development in all aspects is
satisfactory, that the standard of care being given to the child is appropriate and that the
child's needs arising from their religious persuasion, racial origin and cultural and linguistic
background are being met;
355 </li>
356 <li>
356 Where the child has already been placed, check that the financial matters are in order and the
contact arrangements are working;
356 </li>
357 <li>
357 Notify the relevant health and education agencies of the child's placement or proposed placement
including the health visiting service where appropriate;
357 </li>
358 <li>
358 Ensure that any necessary links are or will be established with other agencies for example
because of the child's disabilities and/or special educational needs;
358 </li>
359 <li>
359 Enter the child and the carer's details onto the electronic database.
359 </li>
360 </ol>
361 <h3 id="init_vis">
361 4. Initial Visit to Private Foster Carers
361 </h3>
362 <p>
362 During the initial visit, the social worker should:
362 </p>
363 <ol>
364 <li>
364 Explain the assessment process to the private foster carers and provide written information to
them;
364 </li>
365 <li>
365 Obtain the written consent of the private foster carer and all members of the household over 16
to checks being made with the Disclosure and Barring Service and ask the private foster carer
for the names of 2 personal referees;
365 </li>
366 <li>
366 Establish the private foster carer's child care experience, access to support and views and
intentions regarding behaviour management of the child;
366 </li>
367 <li>
367 Establish the plans for contact between the child and their parents;
367 </li>
368 <li>
368 Establish the private foster carer's understanding of the child's culture, and give advice in
relation to resources and facilities which could assist in meeting the child's racial, cultural,
religious and linguistic needs, including the use of an interpreter if necessary;
368 </li>
369 <li>
369 Advise the private foster carer of the need for notification to Children's Services in the event
of a change in circumstances and preparation of the child before any further move, and for
continuity of information being passed to the next carer.
369 </li>
370 </ol>
371 <p>
371 Advise the private foster carer in relation to recording the child's development, particularly
incorporating the following matters:
371 </p>
372 <ul>
373 <li>
373 Maintaining the child's medical history;
373 </li>
374 <li>
374 Keeping a file of school reports;
374 </li>
375 <li>
375 Noting dates of contact with the parents and significant others;
375 </li>
376 <li>
376 Maintaining a financial record;
376 </li>
377 <li>
377 Noting dates of contact with Children's Services;
377 </li>
378 <li>
378 Keeping a photograph album.
378 </li>
379 </ul>
380 <p>
380 In the event of a refusal of any person to cooperate with the making of the necessary checks, the
social worker should advise the private foster carers that they cannot be recommended as suitable
and advise the parents of the reason why alternative arrangements will have to be made for the
child.
380 </p>
381 <p>
381 Any action required by the local authority to secure the child's safety should be considered and
legal advice sought as necessary.
381 </p>
382 <p>
382 If the initial visit takes place after the child's placement, the social worker should also:
382 </p>
383 <ol>
384 <li>
384 Ensure that the parents have fully informed the private foster carer of the child's medical
history and any current need for ongoing professional monitoring and medication, and has handed
the child's personal child health records to the private foster carer;
384 </li>
385 <li>
385 Encourage the private foster carers to draw up a written agreement with the child's parents as
to their respective expectations and responsibilities in relation to the private fostering
arrangement including the contact arrangements, finances and expected duration;
385 </li>
386 <li>
386 Ensure that the child is registered with a GP, dentist and, if necessary, optician local to the
private foster home;
386 </li>
387 <li>
387 Ensure that a school place has been arranged for the child if of school age;
387 </li>
388 <li>
388 Ensure the parent provides the private foster carer with a written general consent to cover any
necessary medical treatment and that a copy of this consent is given to the GP, dentist,
optician and retained on the child's file;
388 </li>
389 <li>
389 Advise the private foster carer to arrange a medical examination of the child with the GP as
soon as practicable after the start of the placement.
389 </li>
390 </ol>
391 <p>
391 After the visit, the social worker should complete a written report of the meeting and pass a copy
to the
391 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
391 Designated Manager (Private Fostering)
391 </a>
391 for information.
391 </p>
392 <h3 id="asst_fc">
392 5. Assessment of Private Foster Carers
392 </h3>
393 <p>
393 The social worker undertaking the assessment must arrange for checks on the private foster carer,
all members of the household and frequent visitors over 16 to be made with the Disclosure and
Barring Service and Children's Services records (including for the areas of any previous
addresses). The social worker should also seek written references and arrange to visit the
personal referees.
393 </p>
394 <p>
394 The assessment will consider the following:
394 </p>
395 <ul>
396 <li>
396 The suitability of the private foster carer and all members of the household;
396 </li>
397 <li>
397 The suitability of the accommodation.
397 </li>
398 </ul>
399 <p>
399 A report on the assessment should be presented to the
399 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
399 Designated Manager (Private Fostering)
399 </a>
399 for a decision to be made. Written notice of the decision must then be sent to the private foster
carer and the parents, including any requirements, exemptions or prohibitions imposed - see
399 <a href="#impose_req">
399 Section 7, Imposing Requirements on Private Foster Carers
399 </a>
399 ,
399 <a href="#limit">
399 Section 8, Limit on Number of Children
399 </a>
399 and
399 <a href="#prohib_disq">
399 Section 9, Prohibition and Disqualification
399 </a>
399 .
399 </p>
400 <p>
400 If, at any stage of the assessment of the private foster carers, information is obtained which
suggests that a child already placed with the private foster carer may be a Child in Need, the
manager may authorise services under a Child in Need Plan and/or an Assessment to be carried out
alongside the assessment of the private foster carer.
400 </p>
401 <p>
401 In the event of a refusal of any person to cooperate with the making of the necessary checks, the
social worker should advise the private foster carers that they cannot be recommended as suitable
and advise the parents of the reason why alternative arrangements will have to be made for the
child. Any action required by the local authority to secure the child's safety should be
considered and legal advice sought as necessary.
401 </p>
402 <p>
402 If any information comes to light during the course of the private foster carer assessment, for
example as a result of the Disclosure and Barring Service checks, which may preclude the person
from fostering a child, the social worker should prepare a report to the Designated Manager
(Private Fostering). Immediate consideration should also be given to the arrangements for the
child and if necessary child protection procedures should be followed.
402 </p>
403 <p>
403 See
403 <a href="#prohib_disq">
403 Section 9, Prohibition and Disqualification
403 </a>
403 .
403 </p>
404 <p>
404 In the event that the parents decline to make alternative arrangements or where the parents cannot
be found, the social worker should consider whether any action may be required by the local
authority to secure the child's safety under the
404 <a href="http://www.londoncp.co.uk/chapters/A_contents.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
404 London Child Protection Procedures, Part A: Core Procedures
404 </a>
404 and legal advice should be sought as necessary.
404 </p>
405 <h3 id="fin_supp">
405 6. Financial Support for Private Foster Carers
405 </h3>
406 <p>
406 Financial support by the local authority to sustain an otherwise satisfactory placement may be
considered and where appropriate, the social worker should seek the approval of the relevant
manager for such assistance to be given.
406 </p>
407 <p>
407 Once the approval in principle has been given, the social worker should arrange for the private
foster carers to complete a financial assessment.
407 </p>
408 <p>
408 Once the completed financial assessment form has been received, it should be sent to the relevant
manager for the calculation to be completed and the level determined in accordance with the scales
agreed from time to time.
408 </p>
409 <p>
409 The relevant manager will confirm the amount of the financial support in writing to the carers
once the financial assessment is complete.
409 </p>
410 Any payment agreed is from the submission of the financial assessment paperwork and will not be back
dated to the date of placement.
411 <p>
411 The payments should be part of a Child in Need Plan. See
411 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html">
411 Child in Need of Our Support and Protection Procedure
411 </a>
411 .
411 </p>
412 <h3 id="impose_req">
412 7. Imposing Requirements on Private Foster Carers
412 </h3>
413 <p>
413 Where appropriate, reports to the
413 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
413 Designated Manager (Private Fostering)
413 </a>
413 can include recommendations for requirements to be imposed on the private foster carers, for
example to restrict the approval to an individual child or to limit the number, age or gender of
children who may be cared for privately. Requirements may also relate to the standard of
accommodation, health and safety matters and/or practical matters such as equipment. A requirement
may include a time-scale within which the foster carer must take the necessary action.
413 </p>
414 <p>
414 A requirement may be varied, removed or added at any time.
414 </p>
415 <p>
415 Any requirements imposed must be specified in writing, together with reasons. Written notice of
any requirements imposed, together with the reasons, will be sent to the foster carer and to the
parent by the social worker responsible for the assessment. The foster carer will also be advised
of the right to appeal against the requirement to the Magistrates' Court.
415 </p>
416 <h3 id="limit">
416 8. Limit on Number of Children
416 </h3>
417 <p>
417 The maximum number of children privately fostered in any one household must not exceed 3 unless
there are exceptional circumstances.
417 </p>
418 <p>
418 Any application for exemption from this limit must be made to the Designated Manager (Private
Fostering). The application must contain the following information:
418 </p>
419 <ol>
420 <li>
420 The number, names and ages of the children;
420 </li>
421 <li>
421 The proposed arrangements for the care and accommodation of the children;
421 </li>
422 <li>
422 The intended and likely relationship between the children and the private foster carers;
422 </li>
423 <li>
423 The proposed length of the placement;
423 </li>
424 <li>
424 Whether the welfare of the children in the placement will be safeguarded and promoted.
424 </li>
425 </ol>
426 <p>
426 Exemptions will only be granted in relation to named children and will cease when the named
children leave the placement.
426 </p>
427 <p>
427 Where an exemption is granted this will be confirmed in writing to the private foster carers.
427 </p>
428 <h3 id="prohib_disq">
428 9. Prohibition and Disqualification
428 </h3>
429 <p>
429 A decision can be made to prohibit the proposed private foster carer from fostering on the basis
that they are not suitable and/or the premises are unsuitable.
429 </p>
430 <p>
430 The fact that a private Foster Carer is a Disqualified Person (Foster Carer) is a good reason upon
which to seek a prohibition.
430 </p>
431 <p>
431 Where the social worker considers that it would be appropriate to approve a private foster carer
despite the fact that they or a person in the household is disqualified, a written report must be
presented to the
431 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
431 Designated Manager (Private Fostering)
431 </a>
431 for consideration.
431 </p>
432 <p>
432 Where a decision is made to prohibit a private foster carer from caring for a child, reasons for
the decision must be recorded. Written notice of the decision, together with the reasons, must be
sent by hand or recorded delivery post to the private foster carer and to the parent by the social
worker responsible for the assessment. The private foster carer will also be advised of the right
to appeal against the decision to the Magistrates' Court.
432 </p>
433 <p>
433 Discussion should also take place with the parent as to the making of alternative arrangements for
the child.
433 </p>
434 <h3 id="noncomop">
434 10. Non-compliance with Requirements
434 </h3>
435 <p>
435 Where requirements which have been imposed are not complied with, the social worker must consider
whether support should be provided to ensure compliance and/or consider whether to report further
to the Designated Manager (Private Fostering) recommending that the private foster carer be
prohibited from caring for the child, in which case the procedure for prohibitions as set out
above must be followed.
435 </p>
436 <h3 id="visits_home">
436 11. Visits to the Private Foster Carers Home - Frequency, Purpose and Records
436 </h3>
437 <h4>
437 1. Frequency
438 </h4>
439 <p>
439 Visits by a social worker must be made to the child and the private foster carer at the foster
home within one week of the placement, or the date when notification was received if later, and
then visits will be made every six weeks in the first year by a social worker.
439 </p>
440 <p>
440 In subsequent years, visits must be at least 3 monthly.
440 </p>
441 <p>
441 The need to visit more frequently will be decided by the social worker and their manager depending
on the circumstances and the need to visit unannounced and/or to choose times when all members of
the household are likely to be present should also be considered.
441 </p>
442 <p>
442 Additional visits should be arranged at the request of the child or the private foster carer.
442 </p>
443 <p>
443 The child must be seen alone by the social worker on each visit unless this is not appropriate
having regard to the young age of the child or if the child does not wish to see the social worker
alone. The child's bedroom should be seen on some visits.
443 </p>
444 <h4>
444 2. Purpose
445 </h4>
446 <p>
446 The purpose of and matters to be discussed at the first visit after the child's placement are set
out in
446 <a href="#init_vis">
446 Section 4, Initial Visit to Private Foster Carers
446 </a>
446 .
446 </p>
447 <p>
447 The overall purpose of all visits is to encourage the maintenance and improvement of child care
standards and check that the child's needs are met within the foster placement and in particular:
447 </p>
448 <ol>
449 <li>
449 To observe the overall standard of care including visiting the child's bedroom;
449 </li>
450 <li>
450 To ensure that the child is developing satisfactorily and that their needs arising from
religious persuasion, racial origin and cultural and linguistic background are being met;
450 </li>
451 <li>
451 To speak to and ascertain the wishes of the child;
451 </li>
452 <li>
452 To review the purpose and likely duration of the placement and ensure that arrangements with the
parents are working.
452 <br />
453 <br />
454 The parent and the private foster carer should be encouraged to plan the ending of the placement
and prepare the child for the change;
454 </li>
455 <li>
455 To check that any requirements imposed are being met and check whether they need to be changed
or cancelled;
455 </li>
456 <li>
456 To ensure that the arrangements for the child's education are satisfactory;
456 </li>
457 <li>
457 To advise or arrange advice for the private foster carer as necessary, for example in relation
to the maintaining of the child's links with their cultural heritage or in relation to
appropriate travel arrangements for the child visiting family abroad;
457 </li>
458 <li>
458 To check that the financial arrangements for the care of the child are working;
458 </li>
459 <li>
459 To ensure that the child remains registered with a GP and dentist and that any necessary health
care has been provided to take account of any special health needs;
459 </li>
460 <li>
460 To ensure that the child has access to services as required as a result of any disabilities;
460 </li>
461 <li>
461 To enquire as to the contact arrangements for the child with the parents and siblings;
461 </li>
462 <li>
462 To encourage the private foster carer to keep a record of the child's development, including
accidents, illnesses, immunisations, school reports, achievements and any contact with parents
or significant others.
462 </li>
463 </ol>
464 <h4>
464 3. Reports on Visits
465 </h4>
466 <p>
466 A report on every visit must be made by the social worker. The report must state whether the child
was seen and if so, whether the child was seen alone. If the child was not seen, the reasons must
be recorded. The record must comment on the child's welfare and how the placement is progressing
including any views expressed by the private foster carer and the child. It must also contain a
recommendation about the continued suitability of the fostering arrangement and whether any action
should be taken and/or requirements on the private foster carer.
466 </p>
467 <p>
467 The report must be reviewed by the manager.
467 </p>
468 <h4>
468 4. Unsatisfactory care
469 </h4>
470 <p>
470 Where there are concerns about the child's care, the parents should be advised and consideration
should be given to invoking the multi agency Safeguarding Children Procedures.
470 </p>
471 <h3 id="revfc">
471 12. Review of Private Foster Carers
471 </h3>
472 <p>
472 The suitability of the private foster carer should be reviewed annually by the social worker and
reported to the
472 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
472 Designated Manager (Private Fostering)
472 </a>
472 .
472 </p>
473 <h3 id="lafc_private">
473 13. Local Authority Foster Carers who Privately Foster
473 </h3>
474 <p>
474 Where local authority foster carers notify their intention to privately foster a child, the above
procedure should be followed.
474 </p>
475 <p>
475 In these circumstances, a supervising social worker will normally carry out the assessment.
475 </p>
476 <p>
476 The foster carers should be advised of the differences between their two roles.
476 </p>
477 <p>
477 Consideration will need to be given to the implications for any Looked After Child already placed
with the foster carer and contact should be made by the supervising social worker involved with
the social workers for such children.
477 </p>
478 <p>
478 Consideration should also be given to the future placement of any Looked After children
particularly having regard to the usual fostering limit of three children.
478 </p>
479 <h3 id="after_plac">
479 14. After the Private Fostering Arrangement Ends
479 </h3>
480 <p>
480 Parents have a duty to notify the local authority of the ending of the placement including the
name and address of the person into whose care the child has moved.
480 </p>
481 <p>
481 Unless a young person has a disability, private fostering ends at 16. Children's Services will
review the young person's circumstances and future plans as they approach 16. Where a young person
remains with the private foster carers after the age of 16, but requires continuing support, they
should be assisted as a Child In Need. Where the young person moves to independent living, support
can be provided to them up as they will fall within the definition of Qualifying Young People.
(Note that the
481 <a
href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/f
ile/397649/CA1989_Transitions_guidance.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
481 DfE Volume 3: planning transition to adulthood for care leavers
481 </a>
481 acknowledges that some 'Qualifying children' will be as vulnerable and have similar support needs
as those who are Eligible, Relevant or Former Relevant).
481 </p>
482 <p>
482 Support may include advice, befriending and discretionary financial assistance where the young
person has no other means. It will be provided at the request of the young person on the basis of
assessment of need and can continue up to the age of 25 or beyond if the young person is in higher
education, up to the end of the course. Note that in these circumstances, it is possible also for
the local authority to also provide vacation holiday accommodation.
482 </p>
483 Any request by the young person should be made to the local authority in which they are resident or
where the education and training is being provided.
484 <p>
484 See
484 <a href="files/leaving_care_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
484 Policy to Promote the Welfare of Young Adults Leaving Care
484 </a>
484 .
484 </p>
485 </div>
488 </main>
489 </div>
492 <footer>
493 <div class="footer">
494 <div>
495 <p>
495 <a href="privacypolicy.html">
495 Privacy Policy
495 </a>
495 <br>
496 <span style="font-size:small;">
497 <span id='desktop_button' tabindex='0'>
497 Desktop
497 </span>
497 |
497 <span id='mobile_button' tabindex='0'>
497 Mobile
497 </span>
497 |
497 <span id='responsive_button' tabindex='0' style='text-decoration:underline'>
497 Responsive
497 </span>
497 </span>
497 </p>
499 <div id="trix_logo">
500 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" class="imagelink">
500 <img src="images/trixlogo.png" height="40" alt="Tri.x Logo links to Tri.x homepage"/>
500 </a>
501 </div>
502 </div>
503 </div>
505 </footer>
506 <div id="desktoptest">
506 </div>
507 <script>
634 </script>
636 <script>
645 </script>
647 <script>
694 </script>
697 <script>
699 </script>
707 <script>
746 </script>
747 <script type="text/javascript">
747 </script>
749 <script>
788 </script>
792 <script type="text/javascript">
804 </script>
805 </body>
806 </html>