Powys County Council is reminding residents to notify them if they are looking after a child who is not their own relative, in what is known as a private fostering arrangement.

Private fostering occurs when a child under 16 - or under 18 if disabled - is cared for in the home of someone who is not a close relative or legal guardian for more than 28 days. The arrangement is usually agreed between the child’s parents and the proposed carer, often arising as a positive response to a family’s challenging circumstances.

The council emphasises that the welfare of the child must always come first. Authorities need to be satisfied that the child is being properly safeguarded and supported.

Cllr Sandra Davies, Cabinet Member for Future Generations, said: “If you’re a private foster carer, then please let us know. This isn’t about ‘checking up’ on you. It’s about making sure that the right support is in place, and the child is being well looked after, and that the carers can access any resources they may need.”

The council is urging anyone aware of a private fostering arrangement to get in touch so they can provide guidance and support to families.

For more information or to register an arrangement, contact Children’s Services Front Door at [email protected], call 01597 827 666 during office hours, or 0845 054 4847 out of hours.

Further details are available at: https://en.powys.gov.uk/privatefostering