Affinity Fostering, Helping with the Cost of Living Crisis

The cost of living, despite some Government help, is going to make winter difficult for many people, and we understand that our foster carers may also need some additional financial support at this time. Affinity’s director Andy Robins has spoken to many of our carers over the last few months and listened to their concerns. We have also been monitoring the varying external environment closely to build a complete picture of the cost of living crisis, and the likely impact on Affinity’s foster carer households.

This work and dedication means we have been able to put a helpful financial package together to support our incredible foster carers. Our Cost of Living Package includes both an enhanced foster carer allowance, and a one off payment for all current fostering households.

The management team were really pleased to receive the below feedback from carers!

“Oh my gosh, thank you so much!! Everyone is feeling the cost-of-living crisis biting now-including businesses, but you have still managed to dig deep to help out where you can, it’s just incredible. We are extremely grateful and again it reiterates why you are as company *****Outstanding*****”

“I thank my lucky stars every day that I work for such an amazing generous company that truly values us all. “

“I just wanted to say a massive thank you- this is very unexpected but has taken an immediate weight off my shoulders. As everyone else in the U.K. at the moment the cost of living has been a hot topic in my mind. Thank you for the continued work and support the whole team at Affinity do for us carers!”

“Thank-you for today's communication, it’s very much appreciated and a huge thank you to you and your team for the outstanding work you do on behalf of us and the children. It really does make us all better individuals.”

“I would like to say a huge thank you to Affinity for this kind gesture, it is amazing and just shows the support we receive from you all ...Thank you for the continued support, kind gestures and making us feel valued at all times.”

“Just want to say a massive thank you, this payment will help so much toward our heating costs and anything we need to support our children, it’s very kind of you all.”

Here at Affinity, we will continue to monitor the situation, to listen and support our foster carers and young people. Affinity Fostering has always stood by its family, and as part of our culture and ethos, we invest heavily in our service to effectively deliver the layers of support, events and activities everyone appreciates. These include the recently enjoyed flagship events of the summer in the Children’s Activity Holiday, the children’s Pot of Gold Scheme, and of course, the upcoming two-day Foster Carer Conference. We are also looking forward to announcing an exciting new Christmas event for our young people this year!

Affinity provide FosterTalk membership free of charge to all our foster carers, which provides them with a range of benefits that could be helpful at this time, from the Max Card Discounts to Financial Advice and discounted Home, Car and Business Insurance.