Fostering and adoption
As a local authority, the County Council is a registered adoption agency, providing a range of adoption services. Foster carers look after most children in care in West Sussex. They make an incredible difference to children’s lives.
Foster carers look after most of our children in care in West Sussex. They make an incredible difference to children's lives and we've included some real life stories of people who foster to give you an idea of what they do.
We have around 750 children who are 'looked after' in residential or fostered accommodation. Find out more about how the County Council looks after them.
Adoption provides a safe, secure and permanent environment for a child who can no longer be brought up by their birth parents. Find out more about the adoption process and how you can apply here.
Special Guardianship Orders provide permanence for a child who can no longer live with their parents. Carers have the majority of parental responsibility for the child, plus they may be entitled to financial and professional support.
Private fostering is where fostering arrangements are made for a child without the involvement of a local authority, and the care will last 28 days or longer. Find out background information and links to useful information.
The Supported Lodgings service provides accommodation in family homes for young people aged between 16 and 21 (or up to 24 if in higher education), for whom we have a responsibility.