Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 21
21
Not Addressed
Department lacks systematic encouragement or direction for local authorities in supporting foster carers.
Conclusion
We asked the Department how it intended to overcome these barriers, and those of the cost of living, given these would not be addressed through the fostering hub. It told us that local authorities have a lot of discretion over the support they offer foster carers. It has seen, for example, local authorities provide small capital grants to allow for conversions and extensions of homes, or offer deductions on council tax. It is also expecting its pilot regional organisations to go further with the model of providing incentives.55 However, it told us it does not yet systematically encourage and direct local authorities in their approaches.56 Monitoring private providers
Government Response Summary
The response simply restates the committee's conclusion.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
4. PAC conclusion: To reduce the demand for children’s residential care, the Department is relying on there being more foster carers, but it has yet to address the significant challenges to increase numbers.