Clothing, Pocket Money and Allowances

Pocket money, leisure and clothing allowances provided by the Home can be used to help children develop money management and finance skills and awareness.

The home aims to promote and maintain the independence of children and young persons in all aspects relating to the care and services they receive and believes that control of money matters, and the ability to exercise responsible choice as to how money is spent, are key elements of independence.

There will be many instances, however, when support is needed, and given, and it is in these situations in particular where simple good practices need to be implemented and observed, so as to promote trust and avoid disputes, misunderstanding or suspicion. These measures are described below. Any failure on the part of an employee to observe, in full, these requirements, may result in disciplinary action, and possibly dismissal.

This policy/procedure extends also to the issue of conducting business transactions either in association with, or for, a child. Such business transactions are expressly forbidden.

Procedure

Allowances

All children will be provided with clear information with regard to the allowances that they will receive, what expenditure the allowance is intended to cover, (e.g. for clothing, toiletries, general pocket money etc.,) and how the allowances will be given to them. The allowance will be appropriate to their age and understanding and consistent with their placement plan.

Where feasible, and reflecting the child’s abilities and wishes, a personal bank account may be established so that the use of cash is minimised, and the child is able to exercise greater freedom in accessing funds at the appropriate time.

Where an allowance is made for a particular purpose, then it must be put to that purpose. The home will monitor transactions to ensure that this rule is followed at all times.

Where a child wishes to make a special purchase, then consideration will be given by the home to making an advance of allowances so that the purchase may be made. Children should consult their key worker or the home’s Manager.

The home will introduce schemes, from time to time, which will allow children to top up their allowances by undertaking specific tasks or duties, or as a reward for a special contribution or service.

Where an allowance is increased on a temporary basis (to cover higher expenditure, such as the purchase of an expensive item of clothing or equipment) then it may be subsequently reduced. All transactions involving allowances/cash will be recorded.

Handling Cash

When cash changes hands it is best to count it and a receipt should always be completed. Change may be noted and initialled on the same receipt. Employees should avoid using money directly from a purse, wallet, jar, etc. even at the child’s suggestion. Cash should be taken from or given into the child’s hands wherever possible. Children’s money must always be kept separate from an employee’s own money and from that of any other child. Payments on behalf of each child should be made separately so that exact change can be returned at once. Employees have responsibility for keeping children’s money safe while in their possession and may be required to reimburse any unexplained losses.

Shopping

Where a child is able, then they will be allowed to shop alone if that is their wish, allowing them to exercise choice and independence in the clothes and personal requisites that they buy. There will be occasions however when assistance with shopping is required, and the following general rules apply:

Where a choice of shop is available, it is the responsibility of the child to make that choice, and in no circumstances should children be “directed” to any particular shop/ outlet without their agreement;

Where a particular shop/outlet is used on a regular basis it makes sense to take advantage of any “loyalty” cards, bonuses or promotions that may be on offer. Assistance should be given to children in taking advantage of such offers, although the employee must ensure that all advantages fall to the child;

Where special offers exist, such as “Buy one get one free”, or “extra points” (loyalty cards) the employee must ensure that as with all other shopping opportunities, the benefits fall only to the child;

In circumstances, for example, where the child indicates that the employee may benefit from any special offer or promotion, then such an offer should be respectfully declined.

Where a child is unable to shop, or does not wish to, then the home will ensure that appropriate purchases are made on the child’s behalf, taking into account their views, and ensuring that all necessary toiletry and clothing products of the right type are purchased in a timely fashion and in adequate quantities.

Money and Valuables

Safety and insurance of a child’s property in the home is the child’s responsibility. If the security of cash and other valuable objects left around the home, or in the child’s accommodation causes concern, the risk should be brought politely to the child’s attention. If the child decides not to take precautions, employees should notify their Line Manager but should not take further action or press the matter. The Line Manager will record the concern and, if appropriate, take the matter up with the child, their Social Worker, Advocate, etc.

Commercial Transactions

Employees must not enter into any business transactions either with, or on behalf of a child. Such transactions may include:

1. Mail order purchasing, and acting as "Agent”; B. Lottery syndicates;
2. Holiday clubs;
3. Saving schemes, etc.

This list is indicative and not intended to be exhaustive.

Loans

Employees must never borrow from or lend to children.

Giving Advice

Beyond the general assistance mentioned, employees must never give advice on financial matters even if asked. However children will be encouraged to save a proportion of their allowance, although this will never be a requirement.

Confidentiality

All aspects of a child’s financial affairs are strictly confidential.

Sanctions

Money and finances will never be used as a sanction or as a punitive measure. Please see Behaviour that is Challenging and Physical Restraint Policy 

Observance

All employees are expected to adopt this policy as a code of conduct. Failure or refusal to do so may result in disciplinary action which could include dismissal and in certain situations police action.

Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 : Regulation 12 Quality Standard : Protection of Children