Robert Tapsfield, chief executive of the Fostering Network said: "The case of foster carer Eunice Spry demonstrates the vulnerability of children living away from home and reinforces the need to ensure those in private foster care receive the services and protection that they are entitled to.

"The Fostering Network believes it is essential Government introduce a registration scheme to minimise the risk of this happening again. Both the Utting and the Laming report recommended that the Government implement a system of registration for private foster carers. The 2004 Children Act introduced a tighter framework to monitor private foster carers and contains a "sunset" clause. This gives Government the power to establish a registration scheme if the current safe guards are not working within four years.

"There is clear evidence that the current system isn't working. DfES statistics state that in 2006 only 980 children in England were cared for in private fostering arrangements, but it is estimated that the numbers are closer to 10,000 in the UK. This is because only a small proportion of private foster carers notify local authorities of their arrangement.

"A registration system would offer a safety net and drive up standards, ensuring that children are protected from poor practice and misconduct. Birth parents and children could also be reassured that foster carers are subject to registration and can be struck off if they do not maintain standards.

"The registration of foster carers also needs to be combined with effective monitoring. There have to be opportunities for social care professionals to listen to children as part of a regular programme of visits."

Source - The Fostering Network

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