FOSTER parents in Preston are set to receive a cash boost after social services chiefs agreed to raise the basic rate paid to carers.

From April, foster carers across Lancashire will be given a three per cent rise across the board and a further 16.7 per cent increase will go towards foster carers' payments.

Chairman of the committee, County Councillor Doreen Pollitt, said: "Foster parents are extremely important people.

"We are keen to encourage and support them in the vital work they do.

"I am delighted that we have been able to increase substantially the allowances they receive.

"Insurance cover for foster carers is another issue they have highlighted for me. The committee has given its agreement to look at how the county council can provide insurance for Lancashire's foster carers and the children placed with them."

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