Purpose

This report proposes a revised payment structure for all approved Lancashire County Council Foster Carers. The proposals put forward are informed by detailed analysis of the financial support arrangements that exist in comparator Local Authorities and Independent Fostering Agencies. 

The proposed changes will deliver increased financial support to Lancashire Foster Carers, comparable to the allowances and fees that are received by carers for other local authorities and those who foster for an Independent Fostering Agency.

The overarching aim is to support the recruitment and retention of Lancashire Foster Carers against a national backdrop of insufficient carers for the children who require placements.  This will support our 'Where our Children Live' strategic aims to place children close to their home and networks of support, whilst seeking to reduce reliance on more costly Independent Fostering Agency placements.

This is deemed to be a Key Decision and the provisions of Standing Order C20 have been complied with.

Decision

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.