It is a very brave and selfless act to open your home to a child or children in need. You may want to be a part of something bigger than yourself, like becoming a foster carer, but you’re worried about the higher costs this will have on your family. Indeed, this is a legitimate concern and should be addressed accordingly.

There are many potential foster carers in the UK who would love to take care of a child in need, but fear they may not have the financial means to do so. The good news is that the government gives all foster caregivers an allowance for caring for these children.

The following weekly rates are taken directly from the UK Government website:

• London- Babies: £137 Pre-Primary: £140 Primary: £157 11-15: £178 16-17: £209
• Southeast- Babies: £131 Pre-Primary: £135 Primary: £151 11-15: £171 16-17: £201
• Rest of UK – Babies: £119 Pre-Primary: £122 Primary: £134 11-15: £154 16-17: £179

Please note that these rates are subject to change each April and when considering becoming a foster carer, these allowances should be checked with the Government. UK to determine what the current year’s allocations are. The rates listed above are a good baseline determination, as rates never change by more than a few pounds in any one direction.

Foster caregivers are eligible for larger subsidies if:

• They are caring for a child with special needs.
• The caregiver has certain credentials or qualifications.
• The caregiver makes a substantial commitment to caring for children in need, such as caring for many children at once.

You should note that there is also a flat tax exemption of up to £10,000 per year for all foster carers. If the child stays with you for a shorter period, then this exemption is obviously less. If there were other foster caregivers in the home, this money would be divided between you and them. Essentially, this means that any money earned through breeding is tax-free for the first £10,000 earned.

In addition to the £10,000 tax exemption, you also receive relief for each week or partial week that a needy child is in your home under your supervision. This means that you may not have to pay tax on some of your earnings above the £10,000 allowance. Children under 11 are exempt from £200 per child and those over 11 are exempt from £250 per child.

Know that if you choose to become a foster carer, you will also be eligible for pension programs such as the National Insurance Credit. This program counts toward your state pension income.

Please note that foster care subsidy is different from adoption subsidy and should not be confused with each other. Adoption pay comes with similar allowances as foster pay, but also leave payments.

Other forms of compensation for becoming a foster caregiver include any training or classes you take to learn more about the process. For example, if you receive training from a local foster care agency on how to properly handle children with special needs; you will be rewarded for your time.

If the child in your care needs to go to regular medical appointments, such as check-ups or mental health services, you may be eligible for fuel compensation and reimbursement for the money you spent during that outing if it is the child directly . .

The UK definitely cares for those who are willing to open their homes and hearts to children in need. Don’t let money be a factor in deciding whether to become a foster carer, as you will be receiving allowances.