Why do I have to inform Social Services about the exchange?

Exchanges arranged by ALLEF (UK) are subject to the Children Act 1989. One of the principles of the Act is to ensure that children who live away from their home for a period of time are properly protected and their welfare promoted. In this context where a child is to stay in this country with a family for more than 28 days there is a legal requirement under the Private arrangements for Fostering Regulations 1991 that notification of such arrangements are made to the Social Services Department.

What will happen after I inform Social Services?

As a matter of course, ALLEF will inform your Social Services Department of any intended exchange but in addition you are also required to notify your Local Authority not less than six, not more than thirteen weeks before you receive the child. In our experience it is sensible to make preliminary enquiries as soon as possible as clearance (including a Criminal Records Bureau check) can take some time. It is likely that you will receive one or several visits from a social worker who will probably ask a lot of questions. Most social workers haven't been involved in something like this before and are often very interested. Procedures vary from place to place so it is important to find out what your Local Authority needs at an early stage.

Parents should not be daunted by such arrangements as they are intended for the best interests of the children. They are designed to allow you 'parental responsibility' for the exchange child. This gives you the legal right to make any necessary decisions, e.g. dental and medical treatment, in consultation with the exchange child's own parents. ALLEF has an excellent track record in its matching and monitoring procedures which fully accord with all statutory requirements.