All approved foster carers receive financial support to help cover the costs of caring for a child or young person. If you’re considering fostering, it’s natural to have questions about the financial side of the role and what support is available.
At South Gloucestershire Council, we believe foster carers should be able to focus on providing the best possible care for children without worrying about day-to-day expenses. That’s why we provide a comprehensive financial package alongside training, support and professional guidance.
Do foster carers get paid?
Yes. Foster carers receive financial support that is made up of two parts:
- A fostering fee that recognises your skills, commitment and role as a foster carer.
- A child maintenance allowance to cover the everyday costs of caring for a child.
The total amount you receive will depend on:
- Your foster carer banding level.
- The age of the child.
- The type of fostering you provide.
- The child’s individual needs.
What does the fostering allowance cover?
The child maintenance allowance helps cover everyday expenses such as:
- Food and household costs
- Clothing and footwear
- Travel and transport
- Activities and hobbies
- Toiletries and personal care items
- Pocket money
The allowance is intended to support the needs of the child so they can enjoy opportunities and experiences similar to their peers.
Are there any additional payments?
Yes.
When you foster with South Gloucestershire Council, additional support may be available, including:
- Birthday allowances
- Holiday allowances
- Religious festival allowances
- School uniform support
- Clothing grants
- Assistance with some educational trips and activities
Our aim is to help ensure children can take part in important milestones and experiences throughout the year.
Do foster carers need to be financially secure before applying?
You don’t need to be wealthy to become a foster carer.
However, we do need to know that you’re financially stable and able to manage your own household commitments. During the assessment process, we’ll complete a financial assessment to ensure fostering is a realistic and sustainable option for your family.
Can fostering replace a full-time income?
For some carers, fostering becomes their main source of income. For others, fostering sits alongside part-time or full-time employment.
The answer depends on:
- The type of fostering you provide
- The number of children you care for
- Your household circumstances
- Your other sources of income
During your enquiry and assessment, we can discuss your personal circumstances and help you understand what fostering may look like financially.
Do foster carers pay tax?
Foster carers are generally considered self-employed for tax purposes.
However, foster carers benefit from generous tax relief arrangements through a scheme known as Qualifying Care Relief. Many foster carers pay little or no tax on their fostering income.
We can provide information and signpost you to specialist advice if you would like to learn more.
Why is there a difference between Local Authorities and Independent Fostering Agencies?
You may see independent fostering agencies advertising higher weekly payments.
It’s important to understand that these figures don’t always tell the full story. Both play an important role in caring for children who cannot live with their birth families, but they operate in different ways, and the support offered to foster carers can look quite different.
With South Gloucestershire Council, foster carers receive a package that includes:
- A fostering fee
- Child maintenance allowance
- Additional allowances for birthdays and holidays
- Local support services
- Therapeutic support through WAYPOINT
- Access to Mockingbird
- Training and development opportunities
- 24/7 support
When comparing fostering services, it’s important to look at the complete support package rather than focusing solely on one payment figure.
What support comes alongside the financial package?
As a South Gloucestershire foster carer, you’ll also receive:
- A dedicated supervising social worker
- 24/7 support
- Ongoing training and qualifications
- Access to Mockingbird
- Therapeutic support through WAYPOINT
- Regular support groups and coffee mornings
- Family activities and events throughout the year
Many foster carers tell us that this wider support network is one of the things they value most.
More questions about fostering?
This article is part of our Fostering FAQs Hub, where you’ll find answers to common questions including:
- Can I foster if I’m single?
- Can I foster if I have children?
- Can I foster if I work full-time?
- Can I foster if I rent my home?
- Can I foster if I have pets?
- Can I take foster children on holiday?
View all Frequently Asked Questions.
Could you foster?
If you’d like to find out more about fostering with South Gloucestershire Council, we’d love to hear from you.
Call: 01454 866 423
Email: foster@southglos.gov.uk
