Increased Fostering Minimum Allowances

With the new tax year having started recently from 6 April 2025, the new increased minimum fostering allowances for children and young persons are now effective.

The fostering allowances have been increased for inflation from the previous tax year and are set by Government levels. The overall allowance for your child or young person is dependent on their age and also their needs.

The new rates for the Rest of England, covering North West England and foster carers based in Manchester, Lancashire, Preston, Blackpool, Liverpool and Cheshire are:

The above figures do only cover the children’s allowances and in addition to this there is also the reward element for fostering.

Beacon Fostering can cover your questions and provide further information on your potential foster carer payment if you are exploring becoming a foster carer.

The children’s allowances are aiming to cover the costs of food, clothing, personal toiletries, hobbies and other activities. Additional support payments above the minimum allowances can be agreed and paid relating to holidays, school trips and other one off costs.

There remains a shortage of foster carers across North West England with pressure on housing, existing foster carers retiring or having changes in circumstances.