|
In a time of ever increasing wallet and purse tightening there is some good news for people in Birmingham considering becoming foster families, as extensive payment rises are now in place to financially support foster carers. Following Cabinet approval earlier this year the weekly contractual fees for Birmingham City Council for newly approved foster carers has now increased 68%, from £56.90 to £95.05 per week. Payments have also increased for weekly maintenance rates and one-off holiday allowances. Councillor Les Lawrence, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: "In this time of increasing financial insecurity families who are considering becoming foster parents are thinking even harder before making a commitment. "We are always looking to recruit new foster carers, from families dedicated to offering brighter futures for children and young people, and having the ability to now offer even more competitive fees and rates will enable us to attract additional families into fostering. Added Jacquie Smith, principal development manager from Birmingham City Council's Fostering team: "We have 481 approved general foster carers and a further 135 approved family and friends foster carers that are employed by Birmingham City Council, providing a safe and secure family home and social stability. "Along with a comprehensive training package we have a team of professional staff able to support families every step of the way in terms of becoming foster carers, and now we have increased the amount of weekly payments for new carers, it makes that initial conversation a lot easier to have. "We would like to encourage any families that are considering becoming foster parents to talk to us and ask absolutely any questions, which we will endeavour to answer, and that includes any questions on the financial support packages available." Payment increases are now in place, and for existing foster carers the payments have been backdated to April 2008. For any further information about becoming a foster carer contact the Birmingham City Council Adoption and Fostering recruitment team on 0121 303 7575, visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/fostering or visit the Adoption and Fostering Shop* in Birmingham city centre situated at 203 Corporation Street, Birmingham, B4 6SE. |
