Money Matters and Insurance

Once you have completed the preparation training and the fostering induction standards and have a child placed with you, you will receive fostering allowances and fees based on the age of the child and your banding level. Payments are made in arrears directly to your bank or building society.

If you have any queries about allowances or if you think you have been under or overpaid, contact the finance section in the fostering service as soon as possible.

South Gloucestershire Council provides weekly allowances to cover the cost of caring for a fostered child. These vary depending on the child's age:

Fees are paid per child, per week, based on your banding level:

Newly approved foster carers start at Band 1 unless competencies support a higher starting level, this will be determined by a skills audit, completed with you by your assessing social worker.

• Mileage: Paid at 45p per mile for travel related to school, appointments, and family time;
• Holiday Allowance: Can be applied for once a year;
• Initial Clothing Grant: Available if a child arrives without adequate clothing;
• Retainers: Can be paid for up to 28 days in exceptional circumstances for carers available for young people aged 11-18.

The fostering service will provide equipment if needed to support carers in making their space at home welcoming for children and young people. Below is a list of core items and how much the fostering service will pay towards these items. If you wish to purchase items of higher value, you will need to make up the additional amount. 

The Child's age-related allowance should be used for other items such as nappies/wipes, toys, games, accessories etc.

Any equipment requests will be agreed at the discretion of the fostering team manager. 

• Qualifying Care Relief: Increased to £18,140 per household per year;
• Weekly Tax Relief:
  •   Under 11: £200 per child;
  •   Over 11: £250 per child.

For more information, visit: Becoming a foster parent in England (NHS).

• Discount Cards: Blue Light Card, Max Card, and Discount for Carers;
• Activities: Free events during school holidays;
• Memberships:
  • The Fostering Network: Discounts and offers;
  • New Family Social: Support and forums.
• Childcare: 30 hours free childcare for 3-and 4-year-olds.

You must inform your home, contents, and car insurance providers once approved as a foster carer. Request written confirmation that foster children are covered and provide copies to your Supervising Social Worker.

Keep receipts and records of how allowances are spent. There should be a clear record of finances relating to money that children and young people receive (e.g., pocket money, clothing allowance, savings account).

Costs for birth certificates, passports, and Life Story books are covered by Child's social work team.

Fostering Services Guidance

Assessment and Approval of Foster Carers

Children Act 1989: Fostering Services