Are there additional allowances or benefits for specialised fostering placements?

Extra Support for Specialist Placements

Some children need more from their foster carers than others. A child with complex emotional needs, a disability, or a history of trauma may need extra time, extra skills and extra resources. Specialist placements, such as therapeutic fostering, parent and child placements or caring for sibling groups, recognise this with an enhanced fostering allowance.

The level of allowance is linked to the needs of the child and the type of placement, rather than a single flat rate. Before a placement begins, the child's needs are assessed and agreed with the placing local authority. This means you know what you will receive before you say yes, and there are no surprises once the child arrives in your home.

Specialist placements at Match Foster Care also come with extra practical support, which is often worth as much as the money itself. Our multi-disciplinary team includes a therapeutic practitioner, a registered nurse and education workers, who work alongside your supervising social worker to help you meet the child's needs day to day.

Specialist carers also receive targeted training, so you build the skills and confidence to care for children with more complex needs. If you are interested in a specialist placement, talk to our team and we will explain what is involved, what training is available and how the allowance would apply to you. Find out more on our Allowances by Placement Type page, try our finance calculator, or get in touch with our team.

Explore Specialist Fostering With Match

Speak to our friendly team about the extra allowances, training and support available for specialist fostering placements.