The Irish Foster Care Association Addresses Cavan County Council and Asks for Support for Foster Carers in Budget 2024

Monday 11th September, 2023, the Irish Foster Care Association (IFCA), addressed Cavan County Council about the urgent need for comprehensive reform and immediate financial support for foster carers. As the country prepares for Budget 2024, IFCA raised a resounding call for attention to the plight of foster carers who have been overlooked for far too long.

Foster carers across Ireland are deeply disheartened by the state’s failure to review the Foster Care Weekly allowance since 2009. In the face of soaring living costs and a rapidly evolving landscape of child rearing, these dedicated caregivers have been left struggling to make ends meet. The unyielding neglect of foster carers has led to an unfortunate decline in the attractiveness of fostering and fewer people coming forward to foster – resulting in far fewer places in foster homes for vulnerable children.

Speaking to the Council, Róisín Clarke, CEO, IFCA said: “For nearly fifteen long years the basic foster care allowance has remained stagnant, despite the ever-increasing cost of living, rising inflation, and the evolving demands placed on foster carers.   The landscape of foster care has transformed significantly during this time as I’m sure you all appreciate, yet our carers are left with an allowance that fails to reflect these realities with many having to dip into their own savings to cover the cost of raising foster children – this is not acceptable.

“To the members of political parties represented here, we request that you use your influence within your respective parties to elevate the plight of our foster carers and, more importantly, the foster children they care for.

“As a matter of utmost urgency, I implore the Cathaoirleach to make representations on our behalf, to local Minister Heather Humphreys ahead of October’s Budget. Specifically, we seek changes in areas within her remit, particularly concerning state pension eligibility. Our foster carers are at a distinct disadvantage, as they have to remain at home to meet the complex care needs of their foster children. These dedicated individuals are not entitled to receive social welfare credits, as they are not available for work in the conventional sense.

“Currently, the investment of time and care by foster carers does not trigger contributions towards the state contributory pension for the full duration of their care provision. This leaves foster carers at risk of poverty in their later years, despite performing an essential service to this state by raising and protecting our vulnerable children. This situation is neither fair nor equitable, and it is certainly not sustainable.

“Foster carers are dedicated individuals who selflessly devote themselves to the welfare of Ireland’s most vulnerable children, and it is our moral duty to ensure they are supported and appreciated in every way possible.”

Ends

For further information:

Sharon McDonnell, M: 087 2269324 E: media@ifca.ie

About the Irish Foster Carers Association (IFCA):

The Irish Foster Carers Association (IFCA) is the national representative body that advocates for the interests and rights of foster carers and foster children in Ireland. IFCA is committed to promoting the well-being of foster families, improving the quality of care provided to foster children, and ensuring that foster carers receive the necessary support and resources to fulfil their vital role in society.

IFCA Pre-Budget Submission for Budget 2024

In this year’s pre-budget submission, IFCA has raised several critical requests to enhance the quality of care for children in foster care. These key asks are as follows:

1. Enhance Foster Care Allowance to a Minimum of €500 per Week

The Foster Care Allowance, vital for covering the day-to-day costs associated with raising children in foster care, has remained stagnant since 2009. Meanwhile, the consistent rise in inflation and the burdensome cost of living have considerable impact on the lives of children and families. This situation is marked by inequity, lack of fairness and sustainability.

2. Rectify Pension Contribution Discrepancies for Foster Carers

Foster care constitutes a fundamental pillar of the care system. Despite this, contributions made by foster carers are being overlooked, failing to trigger corresponding contributions toward the state’s contributory pension. Swiftly addressing this gap is imperative to guarantee that foster carers accumulate adequate contributions, enabling them to access state-contributed pensions. It is vital to prevent placing foster carers at risk of financial hardship and disadvantages in their later years.

3. Re-evaluate and Implement Equitable Mileage Allowances

Currently, foster carers must absorb mileage costs for distances up to 150km per child. Extensive travel is often required for appointments, visits, and activities concerning the children. To ensure equitable treatment and appropriate financial support, it is essential to eliminate the excess mileage charge. Travel expenses should be recalculated based on the actual distances travelled from each foster carer’s residence.

4. Extend Eligibility for the Back-to-School Clothing & Footwear Allowance

Currently, foster carers are excluded from applying for the Back-to-School Allowance, creating an inequality in support for foster children. Foster children must be eligible for this allowance to ensure their educational needs are met.

5. Provide Start-up Costs for New Placements

Children entering foster care often regularly arrive without personal belongings. To assist foster carers in delivering optimal care for these children, a grant should be issued at the initiation of all new placements. This initial support would immediately enable foster carers to provide a comfortable and nurturing environment.