Private Fostering

Who is a 'Close Family Relative'

Under the Children's Act 1989, the law states you are a close family relative if:

• You are a step‑parent (through marriage or civil partnership)
• You are a brother or sister (including half-siblings and step-siblings)
• You are a grandparent
• You are an aunt or uncle

This relationship can be through blood, marriage, civil partnership, or adoption.

You are not a close family relative if:

• You are are in a relationship or 'living with' the parent.  Even if the child lives with you and you have helped raise them
• You are a cousin, niece, nephew, great-grandparent, or great-aunt or uncle. 
• You are a close family friend or neighbour.

If you are an unmarried partner and the parent is not at home:

• you can care for the child for up to 28 days only

If it is more than 28 days:

• this is Private Fostering
• you must tell the council

Telling Children’s Services

You must tell Children’s Services if you plan this in advance.  Children's Services need at least 6 weeks’ notice if possible. 

In a crisis, you must tell the council:

• Within 48 hours of the child arriving, or
• As soon as you know the stay will last 28 days or more.

This helps keep the child safe and supported.

We Are Here to Help

If you think you are privately fostering, please tell us.  There should be no need to worry.

Newcastle City Council is here to support you and the child.

Contact our Front Door Service on 0191 277 2500

Longer‑Term Planning

If you are caring long term, you may want parental responsibility.  You will need to go to court for a formal order.

You can apply for:

• a Child Arrangements Order, or
• a Special Guardianship Order.   

This will allow you to make key decisions.