Hounslow Council Boosts Support for Foster Carers
Financial benefits increased as part of improved package
Foster carers with Hounslow Council staff
April 1, 2025
In an effort to encourage more people to become Foster Carers in the borough of Hounslow, the council is offering increased allowances and an improved support package.
The standard allowance has risen by 20% and there is a 50% increase for carers of children with complex needs.
Darers can now earn up to £899 a week depending on the needs of the child(ren) including the fostering allowance for each foster child, which covers their day-to-day care. In addition, carers receive a professional fee, serving as an income payment for their efforts. Together, the allowance and fee average a minimum total payment of £340 per child, per week.
Other benefits include a full Council Tax refund (regardless of borough of residence), a set up grant of £750 and a loyalty bonus of £500 every 5 years. Up to £750 is available for items such as bedding, car seats etc. and there is a holiday payment as a one-off incentive payment for the year
Carers can call on a range of support including a 24/7 telephone support and out-of-hours fostering duty including the children’s emergency duty team. There is also a dedicated social worker offering personal assistance and a clinical psychotherapist to provide professional advice and training to assist with supporting placements. Foster carer support groups where carers can meet and share experiences, get advice, and network with peers are available in the borough and the Fostering Network membership gives access to discounts.
Other incentives include a Lampton Leisure pass for local gym/swimming pool use, an annual Merlin pass, granting free entry to 30 of the UK's top attractions, including Legoland and Thorpe Park, a Blue light card offering discounts at hundreds of high street retailers, restaurants, and cinemas and Coram Baaf membership including, training, seminars and research. A yearly social event and celebration at Hounslow Council’s annual foster carers’ awards ceremony.
Cabinet Member for Education, Children, Skills, and Employment at Hounslow Council, Councillor Samia Chaudhary said: “We value our foster carers highly and want to reward them with a package that matches their commitment and dedication. Fostering with Hounslow keeps children and young people who need foster care in the local community, in familiar surroundings which we know can provide a better outcome for them as they grow up.”
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