Foster Carer Payments
Foster carers receive pay so that they can provide the best experience for the child or children in their care. They also receive pay as a recognition of their skills and commitment to fostering. We know that foster carers do an amazing job and deserve to be recognised for this.
How much do foster carers get paid?
Each agency will have a different rate of pay for their foster carers. We make sure that our pay is fair and in line with the national average. We are passionate about making sure you are appreciated for the job that you do.
At Cuffe and Lacey, you will be paid weekly whenever a child or children are placed in your care. Each placement is different and pay varies depending on this. Our foster carers usually receive between £305-500 per week.
There are lots of different things that are considered to determine how much a foster carer will be paid. For example, different types of placement might require different levels of support. A child with additional needs may need extra support. This will always be discussed with you beforehand so that you are aware of how much you will be receiving and how this will need to be spent.
What do payments cover?
Payments are made to cover everything a child needs to be happy and safe. Think of all the things that help children to thrive – food, clean clothes, a nice bedroom, internet, phone calls, gifts! We want all children to experience normal, family life whilst in our care.
There is minimum weekly allowance which be spent on any child in foster care. This is set by the government to make sure all children are receiving the care they need and deserve.
A percentage of your pay is also intended as recognition for your skills and commitment. We know that foster carers work extremely hard to provide the care and safety children need. We make sure all of our foster carers are supported and celebrated.
Fostering and Tax
All foster carers in England are self-employed. Foster carers receive a generous tax relief on fostering earnings.
There is further information on tax allowance for foster carers on the government website.
Fostering and Benefits
There is lots of advice and help available for people who foster regarding the benefits they receive. For example, the Fostering Network has published a guide on Fostering and Benefits. We will be able to assist you with this during your assessment process, and will always discuss with you if and how fostering may affect your entitlement.
Other ways we support you
As a foster carer with Cuffe and Lacey you will receive lots of support, guidance and training. We want to create a welcoming, inclusive environment that allows you to thrive as a carer. All foster carers will have their own social worker and access to lots of learning opportunities. We will use of experience to help you however we can.
We would love to help you on your journey to fostering. Please get in touch if you have any more questions about fostering or foster carer pay. You can contact us via our contact form, or give us a call on 01253 542 678.