Financial Payments to Foster Carers

All foster carers are paid a weekly allowance to cover the cost of caring for the child(ren) in their care. The allowance covers: household costs, food, clothes, travel, school dinners, etc. and any other things that may be required to look after a child.

Extra payments are made at birthdays, Christmas (or other festivals) and summer holidays. These allowances are called fostering allowances and are paid by cheque or electronic bank transfer every 2 weeks.

This rate is paid to all carers.

These allowances are increased each April.

In addition to the fostering allowance, skill payments may be made to carers. These are between £75 - £225 per week and are paid per household. The level of payment is dependent on the type of fostering, level of experience of the carer and their qualifications. Any carer who wishes to receive these additional payments has to complete further training, assessments or qualifications.

Most new carers would start at level 1 - £75 per week, if they have fulfilled the requirements.

How much payment do short break carers receive?

Short break carers are paid different allowances because the placements are much shorter.

Please discuss this information with the Social Worker who comes to visit you, or alternatively contact Rob Taylor or Andrea Hoofe on 01924 483707.

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