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.