Payments and allowances
There are 2 main payments you will receive as a foster carer: one is for you, the other is to cover the cost of the child in placement.
Weekly payments
This is the amount that foster carer earn for their skills.
| Carer level | Amount |
|---|---|
| General carers | £130 per week |
| Advanced carers | £280 per week |
| Therapeutic foster carers | £300 per week per child |
Weekly fostering allowances
This allowance is also called the 'boarding out allowance'. It should cover the full cost of looking after each child, and is reviewed annually.
| Scale | Age range | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| A | Under 5 years | £142.86 |
| B | 5 to 10 years | £162.73 |
| C | 11 to 15 years | £202.58 |
| D | 16 years and over | £246.44 |
Working out your total allowance
The amount you receive as a foster carer will depend on which type of carer you are and the age of the child you have in placement.
For example, if you are a 'general carer' and are fostering a 6 year-old child, you would receive £292.73 per week – which is your £130 weekly payment, plus a £162.73 fostering allowance.
Other allowances may be payable – for example, for help with furniture, bedding and other basic requirements.