Cash boost for fostering.

Byline: By Tony Collins

PEOPLE in Birmingham desperate to overcome the current financial crisis are being urged to explore the caring side of their nature for a possible solution.

While the credit crunch is causing increasing numbers to tighten their belts, a recent massive rise in payments means there is potentially no better time to become a foster family in the city.

Following cabinet approval earlier this year, the contractual fee for newly approved foster carers in Birmingham has now increased 68 per cent from pounds 56.90 to pounds 95.05 per week.

Payments have also increased for weekly maintenance rates and one-off holiday allowances.

Coun Les Lawrence, cabinet member for children, young people and families, said: "In this time of increasing financial insecurity, families who are considering becoming foster parents are thinking even harder before making a commitment.

"We are always looking to recruit new foster carers - families dedicated to offering brighter futures for children - and now having the ability to offer even more competitive fees and rates will enable us to attract additional families into fostering."

Jacqui Smith, of Birmingham City Council's fostering team, said there were 481 approved general foster carers and a further 135 approved family and friends foster carers employed by them. For further information, call 0121 303 7575 or visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/fostering