Pocket Money and gifts

[LoisWF]

Just wondering if anyone has any 16 year old foster children and how much you provide pocket money per month.

We have 2 asylum seeking children, who have been with our family 2 years. They have just turned 16 and wondering if other foster parents change the way they provide for their children at this age. They have both been offered assisted housing however wish to stay with our family, which we are thrilled about.

we currently provide £100 a month pocket money. And cover all other costs. Just want to see what people are doing on average and if we are in the same mark?

I would def have a conversation with your ssw as they will undoubtedly have guidelines that they will prefer you to work within.

The guidelines are £7 a week pocket money. We just don’t feel like that’s a reasonable amount for 16 year olds to go out with friends and do activities.

we pay £11 a week to our 16 year old but it all depends on their level of maturity and what they might be expected to pay for themselves. A large amount paid monthly could be very difficult for some children to manage and of course if they are vulnerable could make them targets for others. This is definitely a case of one size not fitting all !

I have a 14 and a 15 year old with me.

We give them £10 a week spending money plus £10 a week for their savings, which they could use if they really wanted to buy a certain thing/do a certain activity. We also pay phone contracts and put £20 a month in savings accounts they don't know about for when they leave us as adults.

My two don't really go out and socialise much (other than a weekly youth club) so don't need more money. That could change in the next couple of years.

Our 15 year old gets £10 a week.

However, like our own kids, we give them more if they are going out with friends.

... And we also put money into a savings account for when they leave care.

We pay their phone too.

@LoisWF Can I pm you? I'm interested in fostering unaccompanied asylum seeking children but our council don't take these children on. We are planning to move to an area that does and are talking to various councils/agencies. It would be really helpful if you would advise which part of the country you are fostering in and get your take on the need for foster carers for UASC there. Many thanks.

Of course. I am always happy to recommend and talk to fellow foster parents. 👍

Thank you - I've PMd you.

I have a 16yo FC. He gets £10 pocket money plus £5 towards his phone each week.