At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide a safe, loving home for children in need and support their development.
- Company: South Tyneside Council, dedicated to making a difference in children's lives.
- Benefits: Earn up to £52,832pa, enjoy tax exemptions, and receive comprehensive support.
- Other info: Join a supportive community of carers and access ongoing training and resources.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact on children's lives while earning a competitive salary.
- Qualifications: Must be over 21 with a spare bedroom; no prior parenting experience required.
The predicted salary is between 26416 - 52832 £ per year.
Foster Carer – Earnings
Earn up to £26,884 pa looking after 1 child – (£517.00 per week)
Or up to £53,768 pa looking after two children – (£1,034.00 per week)
See full salary details and additional benefits in the job description.
Position
Foster Carer – South Tyneside Council
Overview
Children throughout South Tyneside need safe, nurturing homes. We are seeking highly motivated and dedicated people to become their new Foster Carers.
We welcome carers from all cultures, religions, ethnic groups, marital statuses and sexual orientations, whether you have no previous parenting experience or already have children or grandchildren.
You can be a full‑time carer or balance fostering with other work. We support children in need for varying lengths of time, from a day to their remainder of childhood.
Qualifications
- Must be over 21 years of age.
- Must have a spare bedroom, or be willing to let a child under 3 sleep in a cot in your bedroom.
- Children under 5 cannot be cared for in a household where there are smokers.
Responsibilities
Provide a safe, nurturing, and stable home for children in need.
Support the children’s emotional, social, and educational development within your household.
Co‑operate with the in‑house fostering team at Market Place, South Shields for meetings, training, and ongoing support.
Maintain required documentation and attend mandatory visits as scheduled by the council.
Salary & Benefits
Weekly fostering allowance (dependent on child’s age):
- 0‑2 years: £176.00
- 3‑4 years: £182.00
- 5‑10 years: £201.00
- 11‑15 years: £227.00
- 16‑17 years: £267.00
Weekly Foster Carer payment (by level):
- Level 2: £250.00
- Level 3: £350.00
- Level 4: £450.00
Example: Two children aged 5 and 11. Child allowances £201 + £227 plus carer payments £250 + £250 = £928 per week (approx £48,256 pa).
Tax exemption: up to £19,360 per household; tax relief on every week a child is in your care, and potential National Insurance credits that count toward State Pension.
Other benefits include:
- Updated fee structure ranging from £250 to £450 per child per week.
- Payment for Skills progression programme.
- Competitive age‑based allowances.
- 14 nights paid holiday each year and equivalent payment if unused.
- Annual school uniform payments.
- Setting‑up payments to help furnish a room and buy equipment.
- Mileage paid 48p per mile for child‑related journeys.
- Mockingbird Family Model support.
- Bespoke training programme before and after becoming a Foster Carer.
- Access to Solihull training.
- Peer support groups.
- Max Cards for discounted family activities.
- Free swimming sessions for carers and children.
- Annual Foster Carer Celebration event.
- Specially trained fostering social worker support.
- Social work support on evenings, weekends, and bank holidays via the Emergency Duty Team.
Application
To become a Foster Carer, call 07744 3250695 or 0191 4238500, email fostering@southtyneside.gov.uk, or visit http://campaigns.southtyneside.gov.uk/fostering. Please introduce yourself and state your interests and availability.
Foster Carer - South Tyneside Council employer: South Tyneside Council
Jarrow School is an exceptional employer that prioritises staff well-being and work/life balance, making it an ideal place for those passionate about education. Located in South Tyneside, the school fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where employees can thrive while contributing to the development of young people. With a strong commitment to professional growth and a culture rooted in Respect, Resilience, and Responsibility, Jarrow School offers meaningful opportunities for those looking to make a positive impact in the lives of students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Foster Carer - South Tyneside Council
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the fostering community! Attend local events or workshops to meet other Foster Carers and share experiences. This not only helps you learn but also shows your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared for interviews! Think about your motivations for fostering and how you can provide a nurturing environment. Practise answering common questions so you feel confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your personality! When meeting with the recruitment team, let your unique qualities come through. They want to see the real you and how you can make a difference in a child's life.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to ask questions! Whether it’s about the fostering process or support available, being curious shows you’re serious about making this commitment. Plus, it helps you feel more prepared!
We think you need these skills to ace Foster Carer - South Tyneside Council
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and what makes you unique. Share your experiences and values that align with fostering – authenticity goes a long way.
Highlight Your Skills:Think about the skills and qualities you possess that would make you a great Foster Carer. Whether it's patience, empathy, or previous childcare experience, make sure to showcase these in your application. We’re looking for dedicated individuals!
Follow the Guidelines:Make sure to read the application guidelines carefully. We want to see that you understand the role and its requirements. Stick to the word limits and answer all questions thoroughly to show us you’re serious about this opportunity.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and get back to you. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our fostering community at South Tyneside Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at South Tyneside Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Foster Carer and the specific needs of children in care. Familiarise yourself with South Tyneside Council's fostering policies and the support they offer. This will show your genuine interest and commitment.
✨Share Personal Experiences
If you have any relevant experiences, whether it's caring for children or working with diverse communities, be sure to share them. Personal stories can help illustrate your empathy and ability to provide a nurturing environment.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask the interviewers about their fostering programme. This could include inquiries about training opportunities or how they support Foster Carers. It shows that you're proactive and genuinely interested in the role.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity is key! Be honest about your motivations for wanting to become a Foster Carer. The interviewers are looking for individuals who can connect with children and provide a loving home, so let your personality shine through.
