THE valuable work of foster carers has been recognised by Somerset County Council’s Cabinet as they approved a scheme to pay them.
Previously, foster carers only received an allowance to cover the cost of looking after a child, which pays for utility bills, clothes, food and pocket money.
Now all foster carers will be paid a fee as well as the allowance and will start on a progression scheme which allows them to earn more as they build up their experiences, skills and learning.
This new scheme aims to help recruit more foster carers and improve the retention of existing foster carers.
The council is looking forward to promoting the need for foster carers during national Foster Care Fortnight (May 12 - 25). Find out more at: www.fosteringinsomerset.org.uk or phone 0800 587 9900.
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