Foster carer allowances in Northern Ireland only increased by three per cent

On behalf of our members, The Fostering Network is extremely disappointed that foster carer allowances in Northern Ireland have only been increased by three per cent for 2024/25. This equates to an increase of less than five pounds per week, per child and represents  another blow for foster carers after it was announced last week that Scottish Government would not increase allowances for foster carers in Scotland during 2024/25. 

The three per cent increase puts foster carers in Northern Ireland behind those in England and Wales, where allowances have been increased in line with inflation this financial year. It also falls far below our recommended rates - foster carers in Northern Ireland will now receive £149 per week for a child aged 0-4, while we recommend £227 per week. 

This small increase actively goes against our calls to ensure foster carers are treated as a valued part of the children’s social care workforce by improving their financial support. It suggests the government has not taken on board the recommendations made in the Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services, letting down foster carers across Northern Ireland.  

We recognise the financial constraints facing government, however we are calling on our new health minister to prioritise and invest in children’s social care so looked after children are supported and given the chance to realise their potential.