The benefits system in the UK is changing rapidly at present. At The Fostering Network, we have resources and helplines to help foster carers better understand what benefits they may be entitled to and how existing benefits could be affected.
Foster carers are approved rather than employed by their fostering service, and this status has a particular effect on means-tested benefits. In the main, fostering payments when a child is placed with a foster carer are disregarded when calculating welfare benefits.
How we can help foster carers
Benefits: Signposts in Fostering
We have produced a paid-for publication to provide foster carers with information about benefits. It explains some of the benefits that foster carers might be able to claim, how to claim and some of the special rules that apply to foster carers.
You can purchase our Benefits publication online.
This publication is available to our members at a discounted price.
Advice for our members
We have provided more information to help members of The Fostering Network understand benefits. Log in to find out more.
Our helplines
Our member helplines provide confidential, independent and impartial advice for foster carers in the UK.
Our online community
Our members also have exclusive access to our online community where you can log in to share your experience and get advice from other foster carers. The community is a safe and secure area to discuss topics including being a foster carer and looking after a child, as well as advice on finances.
Useful website
The charity Turn2us provides an online benefits calculator. You can upload information about your household and finances and find out which benefits you might be entitled to claim. The benefits calculator is here.