Children in care
The Council has a legal responsibility to look after children who cannot live with their immediate family due to issues such as illness, neglect, or abuse. In such circumstances, arrangements can be made for children and young people to live with families, friends, and foster carers.
We have a responsibility as 'corporate' or 'public' parents to ensure that children in care receive care similar to what we would expect attentive parents to provide for their own children.
How do we support children in care?
We prioritise the health and education needs of the child. To meet these needs, we must provide an environment where the child feels they belong and is willing to talk to caregivers.
We also support children and young people to maintain existing relationships with family and friends, to develop new relationships if they wish, and to pursue and develop other interests.
Are you looking after someone else's child?
If so, you may be a private foster carer. You don't have to be paid for this but you must inform the Council about the arrangement. The child's parents should do this 6 weeks in advance, but in an emergency, you have 48 hours to inform us.
Contact us to discuss any issues or to get information.