Navigating through the recent years, we’ve all felt the weight of escalating living costs, a concern that hasn’t gone unnoticed at Positive Aspirations. Our pledge to stand beside our carers, supporting you through thick and thin, has been a constant. Recognising the financial strain, particularly the rising council tax, which has become a significant worry for many, has spurred us into action.

In response to these pressures, we’re thrilled to have enhanced our carers’ fees by a notable 15.5% across the last two years. This step was taken in acknowledgment of your unwavering commitment to fostering. However, as council tax rates continue to outpace inflation in various regions, it’s clear that more targeted support is needed.

We’re therefore excited to introduce a unique initiative, starting 1st March 2024, crafted to directly alleviate the impact of council tax on our valued carers. It’s a privilege for South Coast Fostering to lead the way as the first independent fostering agency to offer this kind of financial assistance.

This council tax support scheme is carefully designed to reflect our gratitude for your dedication, offering contributions on a sliding scale based on your tenure with us. Our goal is to deliver immediate financial relief and to motivate continued participation in fostering.

Contributions will be issued monthly, on the last business day, and hinge on your active engagement in fostering for the month.

As we look to the future, we are hopeful about enhancing our carers’ allowances, pending our yearly negotiations with local authorities. Our focus is on providing timely support where it’s most crucial.

We envisage this initiative as a symbol of our appreciation for your remarkable contribution, aiming to offer some respite in these challenging times. 

We extend our deepest thanks for your continued dedication to fostering, which makes a significant difference in so many lives. Here’s the breakdown of the council tax contribution, as a reflection of our gratitude for your service:

Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to you, our foster care community, as you continue to provide invaluable support and nurturing environments for those in your care. Thank you for your dedication and for being an integral part of our fostering family.