If you are thinking of looking after someone else’s child, you should contact us before the child arrives. Tell us at least six weeks before they arrive, or straight away if they have already arrived.

The law requires us to make sure the child will be safe and the arrangement is in their best interests. We will need to assess you and your family members. This assessment will include:

• DBS and health checks on you and all members of your household aged 16 and over.
• Checks on your accommodation to make sure it is suitable and safe
• Making sure you have all the information you need to care for the child
• Regular visits to the child when they are living with you

This assessment will only relate to a particular arrangement. It won’t be an assessment of your general suitability as a private foster carer.

While you are looking after someone else’s child, you may be entitled to Child Benefit Opens in a new window or other benefits.

To tell us you are providing or about to provide private foster care, phone us on 01803 208100.