ABSTRACT
The objective of this research was to explore the adequacy of the foster care allowances paid by local authorities for the upkeep of a foster child. This is important because there is evidence of a change in the nature of fostering and a need for payment policy to reflect that change. The degree of difficulty in caring for the average foster child is greater than before and the tasks of foster parents more demanding and skilful. Local authorities have at times had to compete with each other to maintain their supply of carers and pressure group campaigns for increased allowances have been influential in some areas.
