Money

We pay a generous financial package to support you in your role as a foster carer.

From 1 April 2024, we have increased the financial allowances we pay to support our foster carers.

• Our payment structure is based on the age, dynamic of family group and needs of the child
• Our payment system rewards carers who can provide additional support, for example designated leads, training, mentoring and interviewing roles
• Additional annual payments for birthdays, religious festivals and a holiday allowance
• Service award payments for our loyal foster carers who have fostered with us for over 5 years
• We offer a word-of-mouth referral fee of £1,651.50 to any existing Lancashire foster carer or Lancashire County Council employee who recommends someone who then goes on to become a mainstream foster carer for Lancashire. (Terms and conditions apply). Learn more about our refer a friend scheme.
• We also pay a welcome payment of £1,145.50 to all new, non-connected foster carers. (Terms and conditions apply). Learn more about our welcome payment. 
• A one off £1,145.50 incentive when a sibling group of three or more children are matched and placed at the same time, and fostered for two month
• If you transfer to us from an independent fostering agency and you are already caring for a Lancashire child at the point of transfer, we will match your current payment until the child is 18 or leaves your care. Find out more about transferring from an agency.

Our allowances are competitive with neighbouring local authorities and independent fostering agencies. We're happy to answer any questions you have about money, employment or our payment system and allowances. Give us a call on 0300 019 0200 or complete our enquiry form to find out more.

Learn about our other benefits and support when you foster for Lancashire.