Foster Care Child Benefit: Should the Money Go to the Carer or the Child?

Child Benefit Allocation in Foster Care Sparks Debate The UK's foster care system is under scrutiny following a recent video posted online. The video, by a former foster child known only as Slaney, discusses the distribution of child benefits. Slaney argues that the current system, where foster carers can claim the benefit, is unfair and that the money should instead be saved for the child's future. "I get it logically," Slaney explains in the video, referring to the reasoning behind allowing foster carers to claim the benefit. "But I would rather see the money go to the child and a savings account." Slaney's personal experience highlights the issue. She received a care leaver grant, a significant portion of which had to be spent on mandatory home improvements, leaving her with limited funds. This situation, she argues, is common among former foster children. The video has sparked a conversation about whether the current system adequately supports foster children's needs. Local authorities are reportedly considering changes to the system, potentially moving towards a free grant system. The debate continues on the best way to ensure that foster children receive the support they need to thrive.