Do foster carers receive payment for respite placements?

Payment for respite is usually set out as an agreed fostering allowance, with any additional fee or expenses depending on the fostering provider’s terms. The amount is not automatically the same for every placement, so the written arrangement should explain what will be paid and what the payment is intended to cover.

Respite fostering is an agreed, temporary arrangement in which a foster carer looks after a child who normally lives with another foster family or caregiver. Although the placement may be shorter than a full-time fostering arrangement, the carer still takes responsibility for the child’s day-to-day care, safety and wellbeing during the agreed period.

What can a respite payment include?

• A fostering allowance: this is intended to contribute towards the child’s everyday costs, such as food, clothing, personal items, activities and household expenses.
• A professional fee: some providers make a separate payment to recognise the carer’s time, skills and responsibilities. Whether this applies to respite care depends on the provider and the agreement for that placement.
• Approved expenses: additional costs, such as agreed travel or activities, may be dealt with separately where the provider has authorised them.

The payment may be based on the length and nature of the respite arrangement. A placement involving overnight care will have different practical requirements from a short daytime arrangement, while a child with additional needs may require more preparation, supervision or specialist equipment. These factors should be considered before the placement is accepted rather than assumed afterwards.

What affects the amount paid?

• the provider’s allowance and fee structure;
• the child’s age, needs and usual routines;
• the number of nights or days agreed;
• whether the respite arrangement is planned or follows an urgent request;
• any specific equipment, transport or activity costs; and
• whether the payment is made directly by the fostering provider or under another agreed arrangement.

Respite care should not be treated as informal babysitting. The carer must usually be approved for fostering, complete the relevant checks and training, and follow the provider’s procedures for recording information, administering medication, managing contact and reporting concerns. The child’s existing care plan and household routines should be shared before the placement begins.

Check the terms before agreeing

Before accepting respite, ask the supervising social worker or fostering team to confirm the payment arrangements in writing. In particular, check:

• the allowance and any separate fee;
• the dates and times covered by the payment;
• how additional expenses must be agreed and claimed;
• how travel and activities are handled;
• what happens if the placement ends earlier or continues for longer; and
• when and how the payment will be made.

It is also sensible to ask whether accepting respite affects any other fostering payment arrangements, particularly if you already care for a child or are preparing for another placement. The provider should explain the financial arrangements alongside the child’s needs, the support available and the responsibilities involved, so you can make an informed decision before agreeing to care.