A guide to help parents and carers decide whether their child is ready to either stay at home or go out alone
This guide provides practical tips and advice to help parents and carers decide what is best for their child when it comes to staying home alone or going out alone.
It covers some of the risks parents should consider before making a decision, such as how their child feels about the idea and who they should contact in an emergency.
There is also a checklist for parents and children to work through together to help them prepare for different types of scenarios. This includes questions about what to do if there is an accident at home or they are approached by a stranger outside.
Need-to-know: how to set boundaries and build positive relationships
Balancing the various demands parents have to cope with isn’t easy and all parents can come under pressure or stress from time to time.
This guide shares practical advice and tips for positive parenting techniques that work well for children – from babies to teenagers. These techniques encourage better behaviour and help parents find out what works for them and their child.
Private Fostering
If you allow your child to be cared for by someone else for 28 days or more, and this has not been arranged formally by Children’s Services then this could be a ‘Private Fostering Arrangement’. It is a legal requirement that West Sussex County Council is informed that your child is being cared for by somebody else other than a close relative. It is an offence not to notify the council of any Private Fostering arrangement. If you are unsure, please seek advice from West Sussex County Council by calling 01403 229900
A Private Foster Carer is someone who is looking after your child and who is not a close relative (such as your parents, or your adult sister or brother) and who is not paid, unless by you. Step parents are treated as close relatives if they are married to the parent. Brothers and sister-in law can be classed as close relatives too.
