Do fostering allowance rates differ for teenagers?

Teenage placements are usually assessed using a detailed breakdown of the young person’s expected costs and care arrangements, rather than age alone. The agreed payment may reflect the practical demands of the placement, the level of supervision required and any additional support identified during the assessment.

Teenagers may have different day-to-day expenses from younger children. These can include food, clothing, personal items, school or college requirements, mobile phone use, activities, travel and preparation for greater independence. A placement involving regular journeys, specialist equipment or additional services may also need its costs considered separately.

The amount paid can be influenced by factors such as:

• the young person’s age and stage of development;
• their health, education and emotional needs;
• the level of supervision, advocacy or practical help required;
• contact arrangements with family members and the travel involved;
• whether the placement is short-term, long-term, emergency or part of a planned transition;
• whether the teenager is placed alone or with siblings; and
• any specialist training, adaptations or additional arrangements needed to support them safely.

It is important to distinguish the fostering allowance from any fee paid for the foster carer’s role. The allowance is intended to contribute towards the costs of caring for the young person. A separate fee may form part of the overall payment arrangement, depending on the agency or local authority and the carer’s terms.

Teenage placements can also involve financial planning beyond the regular allowance. For example, a young person may need support with school or college equipment, birthdays, celebrations, clothing for changing seasons, activities or travel to maintain important relationships. Ask the fostering service how these costs are handled before accepting a placement, including whether they are included in the regular allowance or considered as additional expenses.

Rates and payment arrangements should be explained during the assessment and matching process. Before agreeing to a placement, prospective carers should ask:

• which allowance rate applies to the proposed placement;
• what the regular payment is expected to cover;
• whether a separate fee is included;
• how exceptional or agreed additional costs are authorised;
• how payments are affected by holidays, contact travel or planned respite; and
• when the arrangement will be reviewed if the young person’s needs change.

Foster carers do not need to make assumptions about a teenager’s costs. During assessment and training, the fostering team should help applicants understand the financial, practical and safeguarding responsibilities involved. A local office or regional team can explain the applicable arrangement and discuss whether a particular placement is suitable for the household.

Become A Foster Family supports prospective carers across the West Midlands, including Birmingham, Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Dudley, Sandwell, Herefordshire, Telford, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, Walsall, Warwickshire, Stoke, Solihull, Coventry and Gloucestershire. Its teams can provide guidance on allowance arrangements as part of the wider fostering application and support process.