DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
Councils must check on children who are being privately fostered - that means cared for by someone who isn’t their parent or a close relative for more than 28 days. When they’re told about these arrangements, they must make sure the child is safe and well looked after, and visit regularly to check everything is okay. Any officer of the council who is authorised to visit foster children may inspect any premises in the area in which foster children are to be or are being kept. The council may apply to a Sheriff for an order to remove a foster child if he or she is being or is about to be kept in unsuitable surroundings or by an unsuitable person.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Children and family services
Duty type
Public facing
Social determinant of health
Social and community context
Emerging policy and legislation
1
National bodies with shared interest
Social Work Scotland
Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)
Care Inspectorate
Standards and Frameworks
2