Monmouthshire County Council today agreed to give its foster carers a 30% subsidy on their council tax in recognition of the invaluable role that they perform in looking after some our the most vulnerable children in our county. Foster carers have said that the benefits and support the council offers are important for them to be able to provide the care needed, and this council tax subsidy will be a welcome addition to that support.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Care, Safeguarding and Accessible Health Services, Cllr Ian Chandler, said: “Foster carers in Monmouthshire make a huge a difference to children’s and young people’s lives. Our appreciation for what they offer can’t be said enough. We are now looking for more people to help local children and young people to stay in our community. Monmouthshire needs at least 30 new fostering families to provide nurturing and welcoming homes for local children. We welcome enquires from people from all kinds of backgrounds and experience. Becoming a foster carer for Monmouthshire County Council will mean you will become part of our fostering community, and the council is delighted to be able to provide a council tax subsidy to foster carers as part of our package of rewards and benefits.”

The Foster Wales Monmouthshire team will be out and about in the community, spreading the word about how residents can make a difference to children or young people’s lives. If you think you could give a child a break, care for a child whilst their parent’s get back on their feet, look after a baby until they go to adoptive parents, help a young person as they become independent, or provide a long-term family for a child, please get in touch – we need to hear from you.

It is currently Foster Care Fortnight – the Fostering Network’s annual campaign to raise the profile of fostering and show how foster care transforms children’s lives. Foster Wales Monmouthshire is working hard to ensure all of our foster carers receive the right support so that the children in their care can flourish.