Salford City Council has announced it will make a £1.6m increase in allowance payments for the dedicated foster carers who work with the council.
The council, it’s Fostering for Salford team and the Foster Care Association have worked closely to ensure Salford foster carers are prioritised in the council’s budget decisions, particularly during the current cost of living situation.
Foster carers will receive a substantial increase to their current allowances with a 22 per cent rise in boarding allowances, 17 per cent rise in skills payment, 12 per cent rise in secondary school uniforms and birthday allowance, between 25 to 50 per cent for equipment, and a commitment to pay double allowance for birthdays and festivals, school proms and two weeks payments for introductions. The increase in payments will be made with effect from 1 April.
Councillor Jim Cammell, Lead Member for Children’s and Young People’s Services, said: “I am pleased to announce that in recognition of the tremendous contribution our Salford foster carers make to the lifelong chances and wellbeing of our children in care, we will this year be investing £1.6 million into foster carer allowances. We recognise the impact of the cost of living crisis on carers and we highly value the care and commitment they show. We’re delighted to go above and beyond the national recommended increase for foster carer payments due to the incredible support we know they give.”
Foster carers can help change the lives of children in care, helping them to thrive. Fostering provides children with the structure and support they need to develop important life skills such as independence, responsibility, and self-care.
Like other jobs working with children, fostering isn’t easy but is very rewarding and makes a huge difference to children’s lives.
The council’s Foster for Salford team always welcomes enquiries from people who are interested in fostering. There is a wide range of training and support to foster from courses to mentors and buddies as well as regular professional advice from a dedicated social worker.
To find out more about fostering with the council contact: Call 0161 799 1268, email salfordfoster@salford.gov.uk or visit fostering web pages.