The unexpected costs of foster care – and how to manage them

Mums Tips

Parenting Skills

Published on Monday, 06 November 2023 11:30

Last Updated on 06 November 2023

Monica Costa

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Fostering a child is an act of immense compassion, offering a child a nurturing environment and a safe haven. As fulfilling as it is, new and experienced foster carers alike sometimes encounter unexpected costs associated with care. Being prepared can help navigate the financial aspects of foster care more smoothly.

Initial Outlays

When you first welcome a foster child into your home, there might be several immediate expenses. For instance, you might need to prepare a room, ensuring it’s comfortable and meets the child’s needs. This could involve buying a new bed, storage for their belongings, or other essential items. There’s also the consideration of school uniforms, shoes, and bags, especially if you receive a child in the middle of a school term. You will be provided with a fostering allowance designed to cover these costs, and the ongoing cost of caring for the child.

Tips for Initial Costs

• Seek second-hand options: Many charity shops or online platforms offer gently used items at a fraction of the price. They can be particularly useful for items like uniforms or clothing, which children outgrow quickly.
• Connect with support groups: Local foster care support groups often have resources or can point you in the direction of financial aid or discounts.
• Budget: Prioritise essential items and spread out non-urgent purchases over a few weeks or months.

Ongoing Expenses

Beyond the initial outlays, there are ongoing costs. These might include extra food, higher utility bills due to increased usage, transport for school or extracurricular activities, and perhaps even medical needs that weren’t anticipated.

Making Ongoing Costs Manageable

• Plan meals ahead: Bulk buying and meal planning can significantly cut down on food expenses.
• Leverage public transport: Depending on where you live, using public transport or arranging carpools can be cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
• Review utility providers: Ensure you’re getting the best deal on your utility bills by occasionally reviewing and comparing providers.

Recreational Activities

A crucial aspect of being a foster carer is providing children with enriching experiences, which often involves recreational activities. These might range from school trips to hobbies like music lessons or sports. While incredibly beneficial for the child’s development, they do come with their own set of costs.

Ways to Make Activities Affordable

• Local council initiatives: Some councils offer subsidised rates for extracurricular activities. It’s worth checking their programmes.
• Group discounts: If the child wants to take part in group activities, there might be group or sibling discounts available.
• Prioritise: It’s essential to strike a balance. While it’s great to expose a child to various activities, it’s also okay to limit the number to what’s financially feasible.

Unexpected Academic Needs

Sometimes, foster children may require additional academic support, whether that’s in the form of tutoring, special educational resources, or therapy. This can emerge as an unforeseen cost, but with a little foresight, you can be better prepared.

Tips for Academic Support

• Seek school resources: Many schools offer additional help sessions or resources. Be sure to check with the school about any available support.
• Online platforms: Numerous online platforms provide tutoring or learning resources, sometimes at no cost or a reduced fee.
• Engage with the child: Understand their academic strengths and areas for improvement. This can guide where to invest resources effectively.

By understanding these unexpected cots and planning for them, foster carers can ensure that they’re always in the best position to provide a nurturing environment for their foster child.