This report is seeking approval for an increase in allowances and fees for foster carers approved by Herefordshire Council.

That:

(a)        Fostering fees and allowances are increased to the amounts detailed in Appendix A from 1^st January 2021;

(b)        The Director of Children and Families is given delegated authority to approve annual increases in fostering fees in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children and Families and the section 151 Officer;

(c)        The fostering fees and allowances policy is approved and implemented from 1^st January 2021 (Appendix B); and

(d)           Council approved foster carers receive a 100% exemption to their Council tax from 1^st April 2021.

1.         Do nothing. A comprehensive review of current fostering fees and allowances has been completed comparing the Council's level of payment with those of neighbouring and regional authorities. This has highlighted that the Council pays lower fees and allowances than these authorities which is likely to impact on our ability to recruit and retain foster carers.

2.         Increase fees and allowances at a lower level than proposed. Fostering services operate in a competitive market place. The service needs to improve recruitment and retention of foster carers to meet needs of children and young people in care. Allowances and fees need to be equal to or better than our local competitors if possible.

3.         Increase fees and allowances at a higher level than proposed. Any short term advantage of paying higher than competitors is likely to be very short-lived as the market would adjust and ultimately drive up the cost of foster placements locally. It is therefore proposed that the Council approve allowances and fees that are comparable with other authorities and our competitors and that the focus continues to be on providing a quality service that attracts and retains foster carers alongside the package of financial support offered.