Fostering in Liverpool
Liverpool has one of the highest rates of children in care in England per population. The city urgently needs more foster carers — especially for sibling groups and teenagers.
Sibling group placements are among the highest-priority needs in Liverpool — keeping brothers and sisters together significantly improves outcomes for children in care.
What Fostering Looks Like in Liverpool
Liverpool consistently has one of the highest rates of looked-after children in England, reflecting complex social and economic challenges in parts of the city. The council has invested significantly in its fostering service and runs active recruitment campaigns. Merseyside as a whole — including Knowsley, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral — has a significant need for additional foster carers. The region has a strong sense of community, and many local foster carers speak of particularly strong peer support networks.
Types of Fostering Available in Liverpool
Local Authority Fostering Contacts
Contact your local authority directly, or read our guide on LA vs IFA fostering before deciding.
| Local Authority | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Liverpool City Council | 0151 233 3700 | liverpool.gov.uk/fostering |
| Knowsley MBC | 0151 443 3380 | knowsley.gov.uk/fostering |
| Sefton Council | 0151 934 3700 | sefton.gov.uk/fostering |
| St Helens Council | 01744 676767 | sthelens.gov.uk/fostering |
| Wirral Council | 0151 606 2008 | wirral.gov.uk/fostering |
How Much Do Foster Carers Earn in Liverpool?
Most LAs pay a weekly allowance only. A small number pay an additional professional fee for experienced carers.
IFAs pay a weekly allowance plus a professional fee. Most IFA carers pay zero income tax thanks to HMRC’s Qualifying Care Relief.
Want to understand these figures in more detail? Read our complete foster carer pay guide or our tax guide for foster carers.
Frequently Asked Questions — Fostering in Liverpool
Does Liverpool pay a professional fee to foster carers?
Liverpool City Council pays an enhanced allowance for experienced carers and specialist placements. IFAs operating on Merseyside pay allowance plus full professional fee.
How quickly could I get my first placement in Liverpool?
Emergency carers can receive placements within days of approval. For standard short-term care, typical wait is 1–6 weeks depending on your approval profile.
Ready to Start Fostering in Liverpool?
The next step is to speak with an agency or your local authority. Most fostering enquiries take just 10 minutes and carry no obligation.