DON’T let vulnerable children and young people slip through the net.

That’s the message from Kirklees Council which is launching a drive urging local people to help ensure the safety and well-being of children in their area.

The authority’s campaign coincides with national Private Fostering Week, which runs from March 21 to 27.

Private fostering is when a child under the age of 16 – or under 18 if disabled – is cared for by someone who is not their parent or a close relative.

This is a private arrangement made between a parent and a carer for 28 days or more. It is different to mainstream fostering where the local council approves the carer.

Typically the carer might be a friend or neighbour who looks after the child due to their difficult circumstances at home.

But there is a legal duty to tell the council about these arrangements so the child’s welfare can be checked and they don’t become invisible to authorities and at risk of harm.

Clr Ken Smith, joint cabinet member for children and families, said: “There have been estimates that up to 10,000 children in England and Wales are being privately fostered – and there are fears that some of these children could be at risk of abuse or victims of trafficking.

“It’s vital that local authorities know the whereabouts of privately fostered children. If not, their welfare could be at risk and professionals won’t be able to support either them or their carers.

“Everyone has a role in keeping children safe and this is a campaign which could have a huge and lasting impact on young people’s lives in Kirklees.

“If you are caring for somebody else’s child and you aren’t a close relative, please tell us. If you hear about a child being privately fostered – or if you think it might be happening – please don’t ignore it.”

Close relatives are defined as step-parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, uncles or aunts (whether of full blood, half blood or marriage/ affinity).

The national private fostering campaign – called Somebody Else’s Child – is run by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering. For more information visit www.privatefostering.org.uk or visit Kirklees Safeguarding Children Board at www.kirkleessafeguardingchildren.co.uk