Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 (under 18 if disabled) is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a close relative.
This is a private arrangement between a parent and a carer, for 28 days or more.
If you think you may apply to you please visit our Private Fostering web page.
Fostering is offering local children and young people a home while their own parents are unable to look after them.
There are many different types of foster care, some of which may suit your circumstances better than others, and we'll help you find the one for you.
Foster carers come from all age groups and backgrounds, living in all kinds of homes. What they have in common is that they want to make a difference to a child's life.
There is no upper age limit to be a foster carer, 21 years old is the lower age limit and you must be medically fit to care for a child. You must also have a spare bedroom in your home.
Visit the Thurrock Fostering website for detailed information about fostering for Thurrock including:
Thurrock Council has produced a formal statement of purpose on the aims, objectives and practice of the fostering service in line with the national standads and regulations. You can download a copy of this statement below (see how to access PDF files):
01375 652652
01375 652359
