The Fostering Network found fostering allowances of most councils did not meet the charity's recommended minimum weekly amount - which is based on the government's Family Expenditure Survey - of £118.60 for a child under four, rising to £168.18 for a teenager.
In total, 17 local authorities did not even meet the government's minimum allowance rates, set 18 months ago, of £102 for a child under four and £151 for a teenager. Allowances are intended to cover the full costs of caring for a child, from nappies and food to birthday presents and outings.
Robert Tapsfield, chief executive of the Fostering Network, said: "Foster carers are still having to dip into their own pockets. Is it surprising that there is still a shortage of foster carers?"
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