The Scottish Government’s recent decision not to increase the Scottish Recommended Allowance (SRA) for foster carers and kinship carers for the 2024-2025 financial year is a significant setback for foster and kinship families. Despite the Scottish Government's commitment to review the SRA later this year, the immediate lack of increase is causing considerable concern among those dedicated to providing care for vulnerable children. At RSD Fostering, we understand the financial pressures faced by foster carers and are committed to ensuring that carers receive the appropriate information regarding financial support during their fostering years.
In August 2023, Scotland finally introduced a national allowance for foster carers after extensive campaigning by The Fostering Network. This was a significant milestone, as Scotland had been the last nation in the UK to establish such an allowance. However, the joy of this achievement was short-lived. Unlike England, where the national minimum allowance for foster carers has increased by 6.88% this year, the SRA in Scotland remains stagnant.
According to research by The Fostering Network, Pro Bono Economics, and Loughborough University, the current SRA rates in Scotland are substantially below the true costs of fostering a child. The disparity is stark, with recommended allowances at £227 per week for children aged 0-4 years, £275 per week for children aged 5-10 years, and £349 per week for children aged over 11 years. In contrast, the SRA rates are significantly lower: £168.31 per week for a child aged 0-4 years, £195.81 per week for children aged 5-15 years, and £268.41 per week for young people aged 16 and over.
The lack of an inflationary uplift to the SRA means that foster carers in Scotland are effectively facing a cut in financial support. This decision is particularly damaging given that less than half (47%) of foster carers in Scotland believe their current allowances and expenses adequately cover the costs of looking after the children in their care. The financial strain on foster carers is one of the primary reasons for the decline in fostering households, with Scotland experiencing a shortage of approximately 400 fostering households this year alone.
Given the current financial challenges, foster carers may be wondering if there are alternatives that can provide better support. This is where fostering through an agency can make a significant difference.
Here are a few key reasons to speak with an RSD fostering specialist:
Enhanced Financial Allowances
At RSD Fostering, we recognise the critical role that financial support plays in the lives of foster carers. Unlike the static SRA, we work on behalf of the UK’s largest foster agency who offer competitive allowances which reflect the true costs of fostering a child. There is a greater opportunity for enhanced financial packages are designed to ensure that carers are not out of pocket and can provide the best possible care for the children placed with them.
Comprehensive Support Services
Fostering can be challenging, and having the right support is essential. The fostering agency which we work hand in hand with provides comprehensive support services to their carers, including 24/7 access to a dedicated support team, regular training and development opportunities, and access to a network of experienced foster carers. This support framework helps foster carers manage the demands of fostering and ensures they are never alone in their journey.
Tailored Training Programs
Tailored training programs that equip foster carers with the skills and knowledge they need to handle various fostering scenarios are provided and cover a wide range of topics. From dealing with trauma and attachment issues to managing challenging behaviours and supporting children’s educational needs. This ongoing professional development ensures that their carers are well-prepared and feel confident in their roles.
While the decision by the Scottish Government not to increase the SRA this year is a blow to foster and kinship carers who are already struggling to make ends meet. Beginning fostering with, or switching to, a fantastic agency through our fostering specialist can ensure that you receive the financial support and comprehensive services which make a real difference.
At RSD Fostering, we are committed to ensuring that all carers receive the support they need to continue their invaluable work of providing loving homes for children in need.
If you are considering becoming a foster carer in Scotland, we invite you to explore the benefits of fostering. Our experienced Care and Fostering specialists Paris and Courtney are available on weekdays 8am to 5pm for an informal chat and to answer any questions you may have.
Call the team on 01752 71766 or request a call back by emailing info@rsdfostering.co.uk.
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