Fees increased in new drive to find foster carers

THE money paid to foster parents are set to rise as part of efforts to find more people to give homes to children in care.

Fees and maintenance payments will go up by between two and five per cent from April.

It will mean the minimum fee any person will receive for fostering a child will be £139.37.

General allowances for a child aged up to four will jump to £262.68 while the allowance for a young person aged between 16 and 18 will increase to £453.06.

Holiday allowance will also rise as part of the move from between £394.02 to £679.59 depending on the child’s age.

Further changes will see friends and family weekly allowances brought into line.

Coun Jim O'Boyle, children and young people spokesman, said: "Some people may be surprised we are increasing fees and maintenance allowances at a time when the council is facing very tough financial pressures.

"But independent foster agencies are twice as costly as our own foster carers so it makes sense that we are as attractive as possible to reduce the amount we currently pay in the long run.

"These changes will move us towards a position to enhance and encourage more people to join our appeal to become a foster adopter."

Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer, or to adopt a child, should contact the council on 7683 2828.

Share This

Regional news »