Payment

At Oak Fostering, we value the commitment and professionalism of our Foster Carers and recognise the specialist skills they bring to the role. While Foster Carers are not employees of the service, they are classed as self-employed and are required to complete a yearly self-assessment. (Advice and support with this can be provided.)

We view fostering as both a career and a skilled profession, and our payment structure reflects this.

  • Foster Carer Fee – Carers receive up to £2,050 per child, per full month as payment for their skills and dedication.

  • Child’s Allowance – In addition, carers receive a weekly allowance (amount varies depending on the child’s age) to cover the day-to-day costs of caring for the child. This allowance must be used to meet the child’s needs. Extra payments are also made for special occasions, such as birthdays and religious festivals.

  • Respite Carers – Respite carers receive £125 per child, plus a pro-rata child’s allowance per 24-hour period, paid in line with the arrangements set out in our Finance Policy.

Oak Fostering has high expectations for the care provided to children, and all carers are expected to use the allowance to maintain these standards.

Foster Carer fees and allowances explained

Why Foster With Oak Fostering

When you foster with Oak, you’re not joining a system, you’re joining a family.

We’re a small, independent agency that works closely with just 25 fostering households at a time. And we keep it that way on purpose. It means we know every carer personally, every child by name, and we’re there when it matters, not just when the paperwork says so.

Many of us have fostered ourselves. So when we say “we get it”, we really do. We know the challenges, and we’ve felt the rewards. That empathy shapes everything we do.

Two women talking in an office on a desk

Fostering Changes Lives, Including Yours.

Becoming a foster carer with Oak Fostering means joining a community that’s committed to giving children a safe, stable home, and supporting you every step of the way.

Need to speak to us or have any questions? Fill out the form below and we will get in touch!