Information on foster carer pay and benefits.
Here at Olive Branch foster care agency, we understand that fostering can be demanding at times and is a full-time commitment; that’s why we pay our foster carers a generous fostering allowance that helps to support the foster child and acts as a reward for the carer, so they can focus on giving their foster child the best possible care.
How much do foster carers get paid? This is one of the questions we get asked most frequently. Our fortnightly allowance payments will vary depending on the needs and age of the child, as well as the number of children you care for and the type of fostering.
The role of a foster carer is the most rewarding job you will ever do, and we will ensure that you are fully supported throughout your journey as a foster carer, from the initial foster carer checks, through to the foster carer assessment and beyond.
The fostering allowance is designed to help cover the costs of looking after a young person, such as household bills, clothing, and other necessary expenses. Additionally, it serves to acknowledge and compensate foster carers for their efforts in creating a safe, secure, and supportive environment for the child.
We show appreciation for our carers by providing them with an annual foster carer allowance increase. This increase is permanent, providing our carers with a sense of financial security and comfort.
As a foster care agency, we really appreciate our foster carers and provide a complete set of benefits as part of our package. You'll join a close community of like-minded carers who feel valued from day one. Everyone feels welcomed and immediately becomes part of the Olive Branch fostering family.
Our fostering advisors offer plenty of guidance and advice. They will talk you through what’s involved in fostering and the foster carer assessment process. They will answer any questions you may have on the foster carer checks, fostering allowances, and anything else you can think of. To get in touch, complete the short form below, give us a call, or pre-book a call back at a time that suits you.
The fostering allowance covers the costs of looking after a child, including household expenses, food, clothing, pocket money etc. The allowance is also there to reimburse you for your time and care and to reward you for providing a loving, stable and nurturing home for a child.
Yes! Many mortgage lenders allow you to use all of your fostering income, and there are even some specialist mortgage lenders/products specifically for foster carers.
Having debt would not automatically preclude you from fostering. Everyone’s circumstances are different so this would be discussed during the fostering assessment and approval process. If you would like to foster but are worried your debt may affect your eligibility, don’t let this put you off. You are welcome to contact us for a fully confidential and informal discussion to get more information.
Yes, living in affordable housing will not prohibit you from applying to foster.
Generally, the foster allowance is paid based on the number of individual children or young people you are caring for.
''It was great to be able to book an evening call with Olive Branch when we were both home from work. Sarah called us at the time we requested and couldn't have been more helpful. We asked lots of questions and Sarah spent her time explaining things to us in more detail. We didn't feel rushed and felt comfortable to ask lots.''
Select a date and time using the calendar below and your fostering advisor will call you back for an initial discussion with you about fostering and answer any questions you may have.
"A key strength of the agency is that it is a diverse agency which celebrates individuality and promotes inclusion. Cultural and identity needs are well understood, and children have opportunities to develop their understanding of their own and other cultures. Children’s achievements are strongly promoted. In-house rewards further support children to develop a strong sense of belonging and pride."
