What you can earn as a foster carer

Essex County Council offer foster carers competitive pay, paid expenses and award-winning support. Find out what you can earn as a foster carer.

Essex County Council offer foster carers a professional weekly fee plus an allowance

Fees and allowances depend on what type of foster care you provide, and the age of the child(ren) in your care. We are proud to offer professional fees above the government's set recommendations.

  • Fees reimburse you for your time and the lifestyle changes you're making
  • Allowances are for the child(ren) you foster. This is for everyday costs, like food, clothing and school uniforms.

Both amounts (fees and allowances) are paid per child. For example, if you foster two siblings, you have two fees and two allowances paid to you.

Pay and different types of foster care

Fostering is a flexible role, we work with you to find a type of fostering that fits your lifestyle, family and work. All fees and allowances are valid from Tuesday 1 April 2025.

Weekly pay for short term fostering

Short term fostering involves caring for child(ren) while professionals arrange permanent care. You can earn up to £606.34 a week (pro-rata), based on caring for one 16 year old.

Short term fostering

Weekly pay for long term fostering

Long term fostering involves becoming the primary carer for child(ren). You can earn up to £606.34 a week, based on caring for one 16 year old.

Long term fostering

Weekly pay for supported lodgings

Supported Lodgings offers a stable home, and mentoring, to young people aged 16 - 18 years old. You will support a young person with learning life skills, like managing finances, applying for courses and jobs and cooking. You can earn up to £315 a week, plus the young person receives an allowance.

Supported Lodgings

Weekly pay for fostering children with disabilities

Fostering children with disabilities changes their life, helping them learn and build bonds. You will be caring for children with learning difficulties, autism and/or additional physical needs. A lot of foster carers have education or healthcare backgrounds, but no previous experience is essential. You can earn up to £931.34 per week, based on caring for one 16-year-old.

Fostering Children with Disabilites