Blackburn with Darwen

We are pleased that you are considering starting your fostering journey with Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

As a ‘not-for-profit’ organisation, we have a commitment to the children and young people in our care, to provide them with the best start we can. At Blackburn with Darwen we have a comprehensive support offer from the day you start your assessment, and generous fostering allowances.  

What we offer you as a foster carer

Competitive foster care fees

This is based on a number of factors, such as, the amount of time you dedicate to fostering, the number of children, their age, requirements and your experience.

Child maintenance allowance

This covers the costs of everything that you need to care for a child such food, clothing, transport, personal items and household expenses.

Tax relief

As a foster carer you'll be entitled to tax relief on your income from fostering, meaning you'll pay very little (or no) tax and national insurance.

Set up fees

This is to cover the costs for a child being set up in your home, for example cots, prams, school uniforms or beds.

Fuel expenses

Your mileage can be covered for certain trips you have to take.

Discounts

These are for local services through the Blue Light card.

Gym memberships

An agreement with BwD Leisure for you to receive the same Gym Membership rates as corporate employees.

Refer a friend scheme

If you refer someone you know to become a foster carer, you will receive an additional payment once they are approved.

24/7 support

This includes access to an out of hours duty service for issues outside of standard office hours.

Why choose Blackburn with Darwen?

Our friendly fostering hub will guide you through making an application and towards starting your assessment. The fostering team will start your assessment and aim to complete this within 16 weeks, ready for your approval at panel. You will have access to pre-approval training to help you understand what fostering entails, and an experienced foster carer ‘buddy’ to offer support along the way. Once approved, you will have access to fostering support groups in your local area, a continued training offer and an experienced supervising social worker. Blackburn with Darwen offer competitive fees and allowances, and you will be considered to care for a child or young person from your local community.