The Council undertakes an annual review process to consider fee and allowance levels for foster carers. The annual review process is likely to lead to increased fees and allowances (reflecting continued cost pressures faced by foster carers and the need to ensure that LCC at least matches statutory levels of fee and allowance) with an expected cost greater than the key decision threshold.
Recruiting and retaining foster carers is a key issue for the Council in being able to deliver beneficial outcomes for children and young people but also in relation to help manage the financial challenges of more costly external residential which would be required if foster carers levels are not (at least) maintained at existing levels. It is noted however that fee and allowance levels is not the primary motivating factor for the overwhelming majority of foster carers.
Decision type: Key Decision
Reason Key: Financial Impact>£500K;
Decision status: For Determination
Wards affected: (All Wards);
Notice of proposed decision first published: 28/01/2025
Decision due: Not before 26th Feb 2025 by Director of Children and Families
Lead director: Director of Children and Families
Department: Children and Families
Contact: Ben Finley, Chief Officer, Corporate Parenting 07715 044858 Email: ben.finley@leeds.gov.uk.
Consultation process
N/A
Portfolio Holder: The Executive Member for Children & Families