Purpose

Local Authorities receive annual guidance from Central Government in respect of the minimum weekly allowance payable to foster carers.

The purpose of this report is to outline the requirement to change the fees paid to Knowsley foster carers to ensure they remain in line with government recommendations published in April 2023.

There is a risk of legal challenge to the Local Authority from the Foster Carers, Special Guardians, and from the Local Authority Ombudsman if the minimum recommended amount is not offered.

Decision

That the Executive Director (Children’s Services), in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Children’s Services: -

Approve the uplift of fostering payments. This is in line with the recommended National Minimum Weekly Rates updated for 2023/24.

And that Knowsley Council continue to allow any future uplifts to take place in line with the National Minimum Rates published by the Government.

Alternative options considered

The alternative would be to continue to pay the existing rate of fostering basic allowance.

The risk to recruitment and of legal challenge would suggest that this should not be considered as a viable option.