FOSTER parents will soon get 60 per cent off council tax bills and teenagers leaving care will not have to pay anything until they are 25.

The new rules were approved by Redbridge councillors on Monday (July 17) and will come into force in September.

Council bosses knocked more than half off foster carers’ payments in a bid to recruit more of them to look after children in need.

Cabinet member for children’s services Cllr Elaine Norman said: “I’m delighted this council has taken steps to help support our foster carers and care leavers.

“Looking after our borough’s children and young people and making sure they reach their full potential remains our top priority.”

Charity The Children’s Society has been lobbying local authorities to consider exempting youngsters who leave care from paying council tax.

Director of policy and research Sam Royston said: “Care leavers have often experienced a really difficult upbringing and may have gone through abuse, neglect, or family breakdown.

“Without the support of a family most people get as they become adults, care leavers often struggle to juggle household bills.

“So expecting them to start paying council tax just days after leaving care is setting them up to fail.

“We’re delighted Redbridge is introducing this exemption because it will make life easier for so many young people.”

For more information about becoming a foster carer in the borough, see the council website and search ‘fostering’, ring 0208 708 7528, or email fostering@redbridge.gov.uk