06/03/2024 - New council tax allowance for Luton Council’s foster carers

Despite the financial challenges the council is facing, councillors fully recognise the significant value of our foster carers and their commitment to supporting and caring for Luton’s children and young people. It was agreed at a full council meeting that each foster carers’ household will receive a £1,000 contribution to their council tax.

The details of the scheme and policy are still being finalised, however, more than 100 foster carers are set to benefit from the scheme starting from April 2024.

Councillor Tahmina Saleem, Portfolio Holder for children’s services, said: “In Luton children are at the heart of everything we do and our foster carers provide stability and a safe and nurturing environment giving children and young people a chance to thrive and to have a chance at reaching their full potential of happy and fulfilling lives. This allowance will offer much needed support especially as many continue to feel the effects of the rising cost of living.”

Councillor Basit Mahmood who championed the foster carer’s allowance with the finance team, said: “We are all proud of our foster carers for the many things they do that make a positive impact on children and young people, giving some of our most vulnerable children a better start in life. This council tax support is our small way of recognising their incredible contribution and commitment.”

Our foster carers come from a variety of backgrounds and bring a wide range of life and work experiences, if you’re interested in fostering a Luton child please contact our fostering team on 01582 547633 or visit the fostering web page for more information.