Can you help to track down lost children in Thurrock who are privately fostered?
Thurrock Council has appealed to residents to help find these children in line with National Private Fostering Week’s Somebody Else’s Child campaign from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 February.
The authority is trying to find out how many children under the age of 16, (18 if disabled) are living with someone other than a parent, grandparent, biological aunt/uncle or sibling. If a child lives with someone other than family members for 28 days or more then it is a private fostering arrangement.
Cllr Barbara Rice, Thurrock Council’s portfolio holder for Children’s Social Care, said: “It is not unusual for children to spend time out of the family home with friends or distant relatives. However, for a number of reasons, these stays can go on for longer periods than originally planned.
“If you hear about a child who is being privately fostered or in a private fostering arrangement, please inform Thurrock Council immediately so they can ensure the child is being kept safe and support the families. If not, they could miss out on essential welfare checks for the children, plus other support services for the families.”
Cllr Rice added: “Privately fostering a child is always a big responsibility, which the local authority has a duty to oversee.
“Everybody has a role in keeping our children safe – whether you are a teacher, youth worker, neighbour or just chat to the other parents at the school gate.”
For more information or to notify Thurrock Council of a private fostering arrangement, please email [email protected] or call the Fostering Team on 01375 652615.
