How Much Do Foster Carers Get Paid in the East Midlands?
A common question asked by people considering fostering is: “How much do foster carers get paid.”
At Foster for East Midlands Councils, a partnership between Derby City, Derbyshire, Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire Councils — we understand that fostering is both a rewarding and life-changing role. We are committed to being open and transparent about the financial support available, so you can feel confident about your fostering journey.
Fostering is not only an opportunity to transform a child’s life, it is also a professional, self-employed role. Payments are designed to cover the costs of caring for a child while recognising the dedication, skills and training that carers bring.
Here, we explain foster carer payments across our for local authorities, including fostering allowances, skills payments, additional benefits and fostering tax exemptions.
Fostering Allowances
Weekly fostering allowances help cover the everyday costs of caring for a child, such as food, clothing, transport and leisure activities.
Typical weekly allowances for 2025-2026 are:
- Ages 0-4, from £176 to £179
- Ages 5–10, from £194 to £198
- Ages 11–15, from £220 to £233
- Ages 16–18, from £258 to £284
Please note that allowances are reviewed annually and may differ between each local authority. You can find the full breakdown on our Fees & AllowancFees and allowanceses page.
Skills Payments
Carers may also receive additional payments that reflect their skills, training and the needs of the children they support.
- Probationary carers: £80–£100 per week
- Established carers: £125–£130 per week
- Specialist or complex placements: £175–£560 per week
These skills payments recognise the expertise and commitment foster carers bring to their role.
Fostering Discounts and Perks
Foster carers could access a wide range of benefits and discounts, including:
- Blue Light Card savings on shopping, travel, leisure and entertainment
- Theatre ticket offers
- Max Card provides reduced or free entry to family attractions across the UK
- Discounted sports and leisure memberships at local authority gyms
- Offers from fostering-friendly employers
Discounts will differ across different local authorities and areas.
For more information, visit our Benefits page.
Fostering Tax Exemptions
Another key financial benefit is the favourable tax treatment foster carers receive. Through Qualifying Care Relief, much of your fostering income is tax-free. You will also receive National Insurance credits, which contribute to your state pension.
If you are new to fostering, we can signpost you to services who can advise you on becoming self-employed and the impact fostering will have on your particular tax obligations
Frequently Asked Questions
Will fostering affect my existing benefits?
Answer: Many people worry about the impact fostering may have on their existing benefits. Most benefits are not affected by fostering payments and allowances and we can signpost you to service who can help advise you on this.
Our team is here to talk through your situation and explain the options available. More details are available on our Benefits page.
Why understanding payments matters?
Answer: Having a clear picture of foster carer payments in the East Midlands helps families plan with confidence. At Foster for East Midlands Councils, we believe financial clarity is essential so that you can focus on giving a child a safe and supportive home.
That’s why we are open about allowances, skills payments and benefits — to ensure fostering remains a rewarding experience without financial stress.
Ready to take the next step?
If you are considering fostering, here’s how to get started:
- Find out about what fostering is all about on our what is fostering page.
- Explore our Fees & Allowances page
- Learn more about additional Benefits and discounts
- Find out how to Become a Foster Carer
- Contact us — our team will support you at every step
Learn more on the Foster for East Midlands Councils website, email info@fosterforeastmidlands.org.uk, call 0300 300 8181, or apply online.