Support and benefits with Fostering Rotherham
Fostering is an incredibly rewarding experience. As a carer, you’re helping a local child stay safe, happy and lead an active life. The difference you make can be life-changing, not just for them but for you too. That’s why we’re here to make sure both you and the child in your care feel supported every step of the way.
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In fact, we will be with you from the moment you first call us. We will support you through the assessment and application to make sure your journey is smooth from the assessment to the home match and beyond.
"The support we have received from our Social Worker has been fantastic."
- Sally and David, Foster Carers
Everything you need to feel supported
We’ll be with you every step of the way
From a dedicated supervising social worker to our out-of-hours team, we are here for you. Our team is based within a 30-minute drive from most of our foster carer families, so we are nearby if you need face-to-face support.
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Dedicated social workers to guide you
You’ll have a dedicated social worker during assessment and a supervising social worker from the approval onwards! They’ll get to know you and your family and support you throughout your journey.
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Real help whenever you need it
Whether it’s advice, reassurance, or just a listening ear, you won’t have to wait long for the help you need. We act fast, talk with you directly, and get things sorted.
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Linked-up team for smooth support
Our team is small enough to know each other well, and we all work under the same roof. We also work closely with children’s social workers, so you’re not left navigating the system on your own. If something crops up outside office hours, you’ll still speak to someone who understands fostering inside out.
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Day-to-day made easy
Whether it’s arranging second-home care or emergency cover, our dedicated team makes day-to-day fostering easier to manage. We’re based in the heart of Rotherham, so help and advice is always nearby when you need it.
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Considered matches that put children and you first
We have a dedicated home match team who will work closely with you and your social worker. All home matches will be based on your skills and circumstances. They will only move forward if you and the child are happy with the match.
Support from an amazing community of foster carers
Nothing helps quite like support from somebody who has been in your shoes! That’s why we’ll connect you with other foster carers right from the start of your fostering journey. You'll have a fostering buddy right from approval, and a full social calendar year-round! Your wellbeing is an absolute priority, so there are plenty of opportunities for self-care, such as monthly walking sessions and support groups.
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Our foster carers earn between £300 and £705 per week.
The actual amount you will earn depends on a few things, like the number of children in your care, their ages and other factors.
Financial benefits
Fair, flexible approach to financial support
We know how much love, time and energy go into fostering - and we believe you should feel secure and supported, both emotionally and financially. Our financial support reflects your experience, meets day-to-day needs, and eases some of life’s pressures along the way.
Types of financial support you’ll receive
You’ll receive a weekly fee made up of two parts: a foster carer payment that reflects your experience and commitment, and a per-child allowance based on their age and needs.
Our foster carers earn between £300 - £705 per week, and that’s just the start!
Other financial benefits
You’ll also receive:
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Up to £1,032 a year towards birthday celebrations, cultural holidays and family breaks.
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14 days of paid annual leave, supported by another, wonderful second-home care family!
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45p/mile on transport costs to take the child in your care where they need to go.
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Discounted access to activities, attractions and everyday savings.
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Additional flexible allowances for things like clothing, school uniform or equipment at the start of your home match.
"We know that people become foster carers for a variety of reasons and although money might not be your first concern, it is important that potential foster carers understand the fees and allowances available so that you can budget for your family’s outgoings. Download our financial support guide or speak to our team today."
- Lewis, Fostering Recruitment Social Worker
Training that grows with you
‘Skills to foster’ training sessions for all new foster carers
These essential sessions will help you put your best foot forward when you start fostering. We want you to feel confident and excited, so you’ll get a deep understanding of fostering and an opportunity to meet other local foster carers.
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Skill development opportunities
At Fostering Rotherham you’ll never stop learning. You’ll always be able to develop your skills and feel prepared for the evolving needs of children in care.
Training that fits your needs
​All of our training is functional and easy to apply. We have a combination of online and in-person training sessions and will recommend training based on your needs and our insight.
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Designed for professional development
​All training sessions will build on your existing skills and knowledge so you can keep growing and feel confident before your next home match.
"The availability and standard of training is excellent!"
- Janet, Foster Carer
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