Finance & Support
Financial Support
Foster carers are paid age-related allowances as recommended by the Fostering Network which are calculated to cover the costs of caring for a child or children. Foster Carers who are assessed as being suitable for specialist schemes will also be paid additional fees. Additional allowances will also be paid in recognition of the extra expenses associated with birthdays, holidays and Christmas breaks.
| Age of child | Weekly Allowance |
|---|---|
| 0-4 | £123.69 |
| 5-10 | £140.91 |
| 11-15 | £175.35 |
| 16 years + | £213.29 |
These payments are reviewed annually and paid directly into the carer's bank account.
Payment for Skills
Carers will be paid fees where they are assessed as having skills to provide specialist placements or where they have existing child care experience. Your suitability to join a scheme or be paid enhanced fees will be assessed by your Family Placement Officer.
Fees Payable/Skills Required
| Level | Fee | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Basic allowances as recommended by Fostering Network | All foster carers approved as suitable to foster will be eligible for Level 1 payments. |
| Level 2 | £56.35 per week per child | Carers have improved their skills and knowledge through experience or training. They may have worked in child care before for example as a child minder or teaching assistant. |
| Level 3 | £112.70 per week per child | Carers have considerable experience of fostering or have worked in others areas of child care. They can consistently work to a high standard and have evidence of their competency to support their application. |
| Level 4 | £183.47per week per child. Retainer paid at £104.30 per week |
Carers will have high levels of skill, experience and insight. They will often have successfully fostered children with complex needs. They will need to be willing to consider taking children at short notice. |
Specialist Payment Schemes
Specialist schemes are paid a combined payment consisting of allowances and fee, at a flat rate regardless of the age of the child. In order to qualify for specialist schemes, carers need to be able to meet specific criteria, see 'Specialist Schemes'.
| Scheme | Weekly Payment | Retainer Weekly |
|---|---|---|
| Bail & Remand | £396.55 | £169.96 |
| Solo Scheme | £700.00 | minus weekly allowance |
| Child and parent | TBC | TBC |