There is no cost to making an application to be a foster carer.

The introductory ‘Skills to Foster’ course is free - as are all the courses you will be offered. We expect our carers to commit to training so they can build their knowledge and skills.

All foster carers are paid a competitive fostering allowance. This is intended to cover the full costs of caring for a foster child. It is for items such as clothing, food, pocket money and travel and their leisure activities.

HM Revenue & Customs provide generous tax relief for foster carers. A fixed tax exemption of up to £10,000 per year (less if for a shorter period) can be shared equally among any foster carers in the same household. You don't have to pay tax on the first £10,000 income earned from fostering. There is more information regarding tax, national insurance and benefits for foster carers here.

No. We do not pay retainer fees. Our placements team will work hard to ensure you have referrals to consider so that any gaps between placements will be kept to a minimum.

We are committed to our foster carers building a rewarding and long-lasting career with us. We are looking for more people to train to become therapeutic foster carers and they receive an enhanced rate. This recognises they are caring for children with challenging behaviour and complex needs.

You should not be prevented from becoming a foster carer if you have had financial problems. It will be important that these are resolved, so you are able to provide a stable and stress-free home environment for a child. And it will be important you are able to manage the fostering allowance you receive.

Yes, but many foster carers prefer to foster full-time, so they are always available to meet the needs of the child they are caring for. This means they are always free to attend meetings and participate in training opportunities.

We want our foster carers to regard fostering as a full-time career, which is why we provide a very generous allowance. Some foster carers work part-time, but commit to always being available at short notice should the need arise.