Private fostering concerns raised

Concerns over people fostering children without being registered with care services have been raised by Northamptonshire County Council.

Registration is needed where a child aged under 16 is looked after for 28 days or more by someone who is not a close relative or guardian.

The council said these informal arrangements may be good for the child, but the county still needs to be told.

The council needs to know about these children to ensure their safety.

Cabinet member for children Joan Kirkbride said: "We have only been informed of a few children who are living in these informal arrangements but we believe the real number will be a lot higher, which is why we are appealing to people to get in touch with us.

"Obviously, in most cases these kinds of arrangements are a very good option for children. However, a minority of children who are fostered in this way are potentially vulnerable young people which is why, by law, the council is involved.

"It is highly likely many carers involved in these informal arrangements are not aware the county council needs know. They don't need to worry about not telling us, just let us know as soon as possible."