CoramBAAF's Private Fostering Survey 2025 highlights the ongoing lack of national data on privately fostered children and presents findings from 61 local authority responses across England and Wales, showing a significant increase in participation compared to 2024.
Most privately fostered children are aged 12–15, predominantly white, and often live with carers who are not close relatives; 31% moved to the UK for these arrangements. Notifications mainly come from internal children’s services and language schools, with few from parents or carers, underscoring low awareness of legal duties.
While most arrangements last under a year, some extend beyond 12 months, raising concerns about permanence planning. The report calls for improved data collection, greater awareness, and inclusion of private fostering in kinship care strategies, noting that many children in these arrangements may remain unknown to local authorities.