The Fostering Network has published a report which sets out the current situation with regard to foster carers’ income,
The report, based on evidence from a survey of over 2,000 foster carers, found that one-third of foster carers have seriously thought about giving up fostering because they can no longer afford to continue.
The report also reveals that three-quarters of foster carers surveyed earned less than £229.20 per week (at the time equivalent to the minimum wage for a 40-hour week), including approximately half who received no fees at all.
As part of its Together for Change campaign, the Fostering Network is urging the governments of the UK to introduce legislation and funding as soon as possible to ensure that full-time foster carers receive at least the equivalent of the minimum wage.
The report is available to download from the Fostering Network website.