Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
1228. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the number of foster carers receiving an enhanced payment; the reasons for the enhanced payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42753/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTusla has advised that if required they can provide additional financial supports to foster carers, including an enhanced foster care allowance.
Enhanced allowances for foster carers can be made when a longer term financial need is identified for additional supports for the child. A maximum of twice the weekly allowance may be paid in respect of children aged between 0-18 years if they require significant care over and above the needs of other children in foster care. This includes children who have been diagnosed with significant special needs and require a high level of personal care and supervision.
The purpose of considering an enhanced allowance in these cases is to support foster carers in providing care to these children who have who have been diagnosed with significant special needs and require a high level of personal care and supervision. The amount of the allowance needed is determined by the assessment of need.
The foster care allowance is in respect of and for the benefit of the foster child and therefore must be used to meet the day to day costs associated with looking after the foster child. In considering any enhanced allowance the assessing social worker is required to evidence that the standard fostering allowance does not adequately provide for the cost of caring for the child.
A request for enhanced supports must be certified by the relevant Tusla Principal Social Worker and approved by the Area Manager following submission of an assessment of the child’s needs and supporting documentation. A review arrangement for the enhanced allowance must be part of the submission for approval.
The number of foster carers receiving an enhanced allowance was 193 out of 3,991 foster carers in Q1 2022.
Further, Tusla has advised that they have recently engaged with foster carers in a consultation to inform the development of a Strategic Plan on Foster Care. The issue of financial supports available to foster carers was raised during these consultations. Once the Strategic Plan on Foster Care is finalised by Tusla, it will then be considered by the Department.
