Package of support proposed for foster families

The council is looking after 848 children with just 208 fostering families

Devon County Council is to vote on a new support package for foster carers amid a growing shortage of families.

The proposals, due to be discussed on 23 May, include council tax relief, increased allowances, and new funding for essential equipment and support services.

Liz Clark, service manager for Devon's fostering team, said: "We're currently looking after 848 children with just 208 fostering families.

"Some families care for two, three, even four children, but we urgently need more."

'Severe shortage'

In 2024/25, just 11 new fostering households were approved, while 33 were lost, said the council.

Kim, a foster carer from North Devon who has cared for 40 children over the past decade, said it was "a way of life".

"I don't look at any child that comes into my house as a job.

"These children become part of your family. They come on holiday with us, have birthday parties, and we celebrate them just like we do our own children."

Kim began fostering alongside her mother and has welcomed children from just two days old to 14 years.

"It's tough when they leave and they move on, but I still see children who I fostered who've had their own children and their children are now part of our family as well," she said.

'For the children'

Ms Clark said financial support was a key part of the council's strategy to attract new carers.

"We're reviewing fees and allowances to ensure they cover the real cost of caring for a child," she said.

"We're also looking at council tax rebates and aligning our support with what other local authorities offer."

But Ms Clark said money was not the main motivator for foster families.

"If you were doing it for the money, there are easier ways to earn," she said.

"What impresses me is that every carer I've met says the same thing when I ask why they do it, the children.

"That's what keeps them going."

The proposal

The council's proposed support package includes:

• Council tax relief: 25–50% off the council tax element paid to the council, depending on weeks of care provided.

• Allowance increases: Weekly payments for carers of children aged 16+ raised to match the national minimum.

• Essential equipment fund: £80,000 to cover items like beds and prams.

• Retention budget: £36,000 for peer support, wellbeing groups, and activities.

• Independent Oversight: Two new officers to review foster carers annually.

A further consultation on additional support is expected this summer.