Shropshire Star

Foster carers in Telford could see pay increase

Foster carers in Telford could see a pay increase in an effort to combat an increase in use of expensive independent agencies.

Published

There has been a 40 per cent increase in the use of independent fostering agencies in Telford, and nationally the number of approved fostering carers is continuing to decline.

A report says to Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet says fees and allowances are not all comparable with their competitors.

It also says that the placement mix of foster children in Telford and Wrekin is currently unbalanced, with too many placed with independent fostering agencies and too few with in-house carers.

As a result, a package of improvements to the fees and allowances on offer to in-house foster carers is being proposed to aid both retention of carers and recruitment of new ones.

Councillor Paul Watling, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for children, said: “These proposals simplify a complex system that has built incrementally over many years, They also make the system clear and fair.

Matched

“The proposals are designed to attract more carers and ensure they feel valued as part of the professional team around the child and that carers have an opportunity to progress and develop.

“Fee payments will be matched to the complexity of the child’s needs and the skills, expertise and experience of carers will be recognised in payments for the uptake of learning and development opportunities.”

Suggestions include the introduction of an increased third tier fee, meaning about £20 per week extra for experienced foster carers who have remained working in Telford and Wrekin for more than two years.

Others include an increased fee of £600 per week for additional foster carers who look after highly vulnerable children and young people who require a high level of support and care, and for specialist foster carers who look after children and young people with disabilities.

There will also be a small increase in birthday, holiday and other allowances.

Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet will be presented with the new plans on March 14.

If approved, the scheme will start on April 1 and a 12 month review and evaluation report will be brought back to the council’s senior management team in 2020.