Discounts and Benefits for Foster Carers
Becoming a foster carer is one of the most rewarding roles you can take on – but it’s also a big commitment. At Lorimer Fostering, we believe our foster carers deserve recognition, support, and access to a range of financial discounts and practical benefits that make a real difference in everyday life.
As a foster carer in the UK, you’re entitled to a variety of discounts, allowances, and resources – from high street savings and days out with the family, to professional support and tax relief. Whether you’re considering fostering for the first time or you’re already an approved carer, this guide outlines the many perks and protections available to you.
Perks, Discounts and Benefits for Foster Carers
Foster carers can access a wide range of national discount schemes and exclusive offers:
Max Card
Provides free or discounted entry to hundreds of attractions, theme parks, and cultural venues across the UK. Ideal for family outings with the children in your care.
Blue Light Card
As of 2022, foster carers are eligible for this scheme, which gives in-store and online discounts with major retailers, travel companies, restaurants, and more.
Discounts for Carers
A free-to-join website offering money off shopping, broadband, insurance, holidays, and energy bills – all designed to support carers.
The Fostering Network Membership
Membership includes legal helplines, training resources, and access to discounts across retail, dining, and leisure services.
Foster Carer ID Card
Used to verify your role and access in-store discounts or local benefits where applicable.
Financial Support & Tax Benefits
Foster carers are financially supported through generous allowances and tax relief:
Fostering Allowance & Professional Fees
You’ll receive a weekly fostering allowance to cover the cost of caring for a child, including essentials like food, clothing, and activities. On top of this, many carers receive a fee in recognition of their professional role. To find out more about the payments and allowances we offer at Lorimer, click here.
Tax Relief – Qualifying Care Relief
Foster carers benefit from generous tax exemptions, including:
- £18,140 per year of tax-free income (regardless of how many children you foster)
- Additional weekly tax relief per child based on their age
This often means carers pay little or no tax on fostering income.
National Insurance Credits & Benefits Protection
Fostering doesn’t usually affect your eligibility for state benefits. You may also receive NI credits that count towards your state pension.
Support for Family Life & Learning
Fostering is about more than financial support – it’s about creating positive experiences for the whole household.
Educational Access: Britannica & ImageQuest
Foster carers often receive free access to premium educational tools that support learning for both foster and birth children.
Theatre & Cultural Discounts
Get money off West End shows, theatre/dinner packages, and other creative experiences that help bring joy and connection.
Holiday Activities & Breaks
Organisations like Action for Children offer local events and family days out during the school holidays.
Supportive Communities & Peer Networks
Being part of a fostering community means you’re never alone. Many carers benefit from:
Local Carer Networks
Connect with other foster families, share advice, and find hidden local perks or events tailored for carers.
LGBT+ Carer Support via New Family Social
Specialist support groups and events for LGBT+ foster parents to ensure inclusive, empowering experiences.
Thinking About Becoming a Foster Carer?
The financial rewards of fostering are just one part of the picture – the greatest reward is knowing you’re changing a child’s life for the better. At Lorimer Fostering, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a foster carer, we’d love to hear from you.
Click here to submit your details, or call/text/WhatsApp us on 07938 575 738.