To consider a report of the Executive Member for Children and Families.

1. That the weekly fostering allowance for carers of children in younger age ranges, age 0-10 years be increased by 50% so that they are comparable to those in neighbouring local authorities with effect from 1^st October 2017.

2. That  the weekly fostering allowances for carers of older children age 11-17 years be increased by 20% so that they are comparable to those in neighbouring local authorities and independent agencies with effect from 1 October 2017.

3. That this decision be deemed to be urgent, for the reasons set out in paragraph, 5.0 below, and not subject to call-in.

The Executive Member for Children and Families submitted a report which proposed increases to the Council’s current fostering allowance rates, to encourage recruitment and retention, assist in achieving the directorate’s transformation targets, and mitigate additional risks set out in the report.

            RESOLVED -

(1)        That the weekly fostering allowance for carers of children in younger age ranges, age 0-10 years be increased by 50% so that they are comparable to those in neighbouring local authorities with effect from 1^st October 2017.

(2)        That  the weekly fostering allowances for carers of older children age 11-17 years be increased by 20% so that they are comparable to those in neighbouring local authorities and independent agencies with effect from 1 October 2017.

(3)        That this decision be deemed to be urgent, for the reasons set out in paragraph, 5.0 in the report, and not subject to call-in.