Calculating your fostering allowance
Fostering allowances are paid to cover the cost of caring for a child. This includes food, clothing, transport, activities, and household utilities. The allowance is separate from any professional fees paid for your skills as a carer.
Key factors in the calculation
Fostering payments depend on:
- Child's Age — Weekly minimums increase as the child grows older.
- Location — Allowances are higher in London and the South East due to living costs.
- Placement Type — Specialist, sibling, or therapeutic placements pay higher rates.
- Agency Type — IFAs generally pay higher combined rates than local authorities.
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Visit FosterFlow.uk →Log Placements & Allowances
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Standard estimated weekly payments
A typical local authority placement pays between £175 and £260 per week per child. An independent fostering agency placement typically pays between £350 and £650 per week per child, combining allowance and professional fee.