How much is kinship care allowance in UK?
Kinship care allowance in the UK is a form of financial support provided to relatives who take on the responsibility of caring for children who are unable to live with their birth parents. This allowance is designed to help cover the costs associated with raising a child, including food, clothing, and education. The amount of kinship care allowance varies depending on several factors, including the age of the child and the circumstances of the family. In this article, we will explore the details of the kinship care allowance in the UK, including how much it is and how it is calculated.
The kinship care allowance in the UK is paid on a weekly basis and is subject to change depending on the child’s age. For children under the age of 16, the allowance is typically around £18.80 per week. However, this amount can increase to £24.90 per week for children aged 16 to 17 who are still in full-time education. For children aged 16 to 18 who are no longer in education, the allowance may be higher, depending on their circumstances.
In addition to the standard allowance, there are also additional payments available for children with disabilities or special needs. These additional payments can significantly increase the total amount of kinship care allowance received. For example, a child with a disability may receive an additional £24.00 per week, while a child with a severe disability may receive an additional £26.00 per week.
The amount of kinship care allowance also depends on the circumstances of the family. For instance, if the child has any other siblings living with the kinship carer, the allowance may be adjusted accordingly. Additionally, if the kinship carer is receiving other forms of financial support, such as income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Universal Credit, the kinship care allowance may be reduced.
To apply for kinship care allowance in the UK, the kinship carer must meet certain criteria. They must be over the age of 18, have legal responsibility for the child, and be willing to provide care for the child. The child must also be under the age of 18, or 21 if they are in full-time education, and have been looked after by the local authority for at least three months.
In conclusion, the kinship care allowance in the UK is an essential form of financial support for relatives who take on the responsibility of caring for children. The amount of the allowance varies depending on the child’s age, circumstances, and any additional needs they may have. While the standard allowance for children under 16 is around £18.80 per week, this amount can increase significantly for children with disabilities or special needs. It is important for kinship carers to understand the eligibility criteria and the process for applying for this support to ensure they receive the financial assistance they need to care for the children in their care.
