When a child/young person under 16 (18 if disabled) lives with someone who is not a close relative for more than 28 days, this is called ‘Private Fostering’. The law considers a close relative to be a grandparent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt or step-parent.
It is a legal requirement to notify your Local Authority if you are privately fostering or if you plan for your child to be privately fostered. You need to tell them at least 6 weeks before the arrangement is due to start, or if the child/young person arrives suddenly, no more than 48 hours after they have arrived.
To find out more about Private Fostering and the legal requirements please read this leaflet here. You can call 0345 603 7627 to make a referral or visit the Essex County Council website.
