Registration as a foster carer usually limits the number of unrelated children who can be cared for at any one time to three (this can vary if the children are siblings). An ‘exemption’ refers to the powers given to local authorities under the Children Act 1989 to exempt a foster carer in England from the requirement to register as a children’s home to care for more than three unrelated children.
Exemptions must be applied for and agreed before a fostering service can agree to any of their foster carers having more than three unrelated children placed.
Practice information note on exemptions in England
The Fostering Network has produced a practice information note on exemptions in England (updated August 2022) for our members. The purpose of this Practice Information Note is to review the legislation surrounding exemptions, outline the requirements of the regulations and statutory guidance and provide best practice recommendations.
Each service will decide on its policy and practice based on the needs of the children and young people in its care and its foster carer population. Our practice support team can provide additional support and guidance for member fostering services reviewing policy or practice.