Minutes:
A Panel member referred to correspondence received from a foster carer relating to the reimbursement of mileage in which the foster carer asked how decisions are made regarding which journeys qualify for reimbursement. The foster carer explained that whilst educational, medical and family time journeys qualify, day trips and activities such as Brownies and sports activities do not. Members commented on the importance of these activities for health and wellbeing and the development of social skills. Members also raised concerns regarding the additional financial pressures faced by foster carers during the school holidays.
The Head of Children’s Social Care responded that specific issues are discussed on an individual, case by case basis with foster carers and she informed the Panel that work is underway to review foster carer payments, with a new process to be launched in April 2023.
It was agreed that the current policy should be emailed to the Panel, for information, in advance of the September meeting, for the matter to be considered in further detail.