What is the difference between Fostering Agencies and Local Authorities?

All children in the care system are legally the responsibility of local authorities (councils). Initially, local authorities seek placements with their own foster carers. When a suitable match isn't found, they turn to private fostering agencies like Skylark Fostering. This is often because the child has complex needs or the local authority lacks carers in the right area.

What’s the difference between Fostering and Adoption?

Both fostering and adoption provide vulnerable children with safe, nurturing environments. However, they have fundamental differences. Fostering is usually temporary, with the goal of reunification with birth families, while adoption is a permanent legal transfer of parental rights. Understanding these distinctions can help you decide whether fostering or adoption is right for you.

What is the age range for becoming a foster carer?

There is no upper age limit for fostering; as long as you have the energy, dedication, time, and space to welcome a child, you could be a great foster carer. The minimum age requirement is 21 years. We welcome applications from individuals in their 20s and 30s, provided there is evidence of stability and security in their living arrangements.

What is the employment status of foster carers?

All foster carers must be registered as self-employed and are responsible for their taxes. Registering is straightforward and can be done online through HMRC. Foster carers can also qualify for the Qualifying Care Relief Scheme, which allows some payments to be tax free, potentially reducing annual tax liability. Skylark can offer further financial advice and guidance regarding all aspects of this.

Can I work full time and foster?

Children in foster care require stability due to their previous experiences. At Skylark Fostering, we stress the importance of a nurturing and stable environment. We expect our foster carers to be available to offer full-time, personalised care, which includes avoiding full-time daycare for young children and reducing dependency on before or after-school care for school-aged children. It's also worth noting that fostering can be a viable career choice; for instance, fostering two children with us can equate to an annual salary of around £60,000.

Can foster children share a bedroom?

Foster carers must have a spare room for fostering. Siblings of the same gender can share a room if it's large enough, but as children grow, they will need their own space. This consideration is discussed during initial planning and matching stages. Fostered children should not share a bedroom with your own child unless matched to you on a long-term basis and all parties (including the children!) are in agreement.

How will Skylark Fostering match a child to my family?

Our matching process ensures that potential foster families can meet the specific needs of children taken into care. We consider the preferences, lifestyles, and interests of the foster family, as well as their ability to meet the child’s needs. Through a thoughtful approach, we aim to create successful and resilient fostering arrangements.

Fostering in Lincolnshire

Become a Foster Carer with Skylark Fostering

Are you thinking about becoming a foster carer in Lincolnshire? Skylark Fostering supports carers across the county, offering expert training, round-the-clock guidance, and financial support to help you make a lasting difference in a child’s life. Whether you live in Lincoln, Skegness, Sleaford, Grantham, Louth, Gainsborough, Horncastle, Market Rasen, or a nearby village, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

With our office in Lincoln, we’re at the heart of the county and close to the communities we support.

Start your fostering journey today and help shape a brighter future for children in your local area.

Why Foster in Lincolnshire?

Making a County-Wide Difference

Lincolnshire is a diverse county with strong local communities, but many children here need the stability and care that foster families can provide. With a rising number of children entering care, there is an urgent need for more foster carers who can help children stay close to their schools, friends, and support networks.

Children and young people who come into care have often experienced very difficult early circumstances and need stability, understanding, and consistent support. Foster carers can make a life-changing difference by providing a safe, nurturing home where children feel secure and valued.

Growing Need for Foster Carers in Lincolnshire

According to Lincolnshire County Council’s 2023/24 children in care annual report, the number of children in the care of Lincolnshire County Council was 753 at year end, up from 728 the previous year.

National fostering data also shows that many children in foster care are placed outside their local authority area, which reinforces the need for more local foster families. On 31 March 2024, CoramBAAF reported that of the 56,390 children in foster placements in England, 39% were placed inside the council boundary.

Without enough local foster families, some children may need to move away from their familiar surroundings, which can disrupt education, friendships, and emotional wellbeing at an already difficult time.

What does this mean for Lincolnshire?

More foster carers are urgently needed across Lincolnshire, in both towns and rural communities.

Local foster carers can help children stay connected to the people, places, and routines that matter to them.

By fostering locally, you can offer the kind of stability and familiarity that helps children feel safe and supported.

The Impact of Fostering in Lincolnshire

By fostering in Lincolnshire, you can:

✔ Provide a stable and loving home for a child who needs one
✔ Help children stay connected to their local community and school
✔ Support emotional healing and positive development
✔ Join a strong and growing community of foster carers supported by Skylark Fostering

Fostering is not just about offering a spare room. It is about offering security, encouragement, and hope.

How Skylark Fostering Supports You

🏡 Generous Financial Support – We offer competitive fostering allowances.
📚 Expert Training – Ongoing learning and development tailored to your needs.
❤️ 24/7 Support – Help and guidance whenever you need it.
🤝 A Community of Carers – Be part of a supportive fostering family.

Who Can Foster in Lincolnshire?

Fostering is open to people from all walks of life. You do not need previous experience — just the commitment to care for a child and help them thrive.

You may be able to foster if you are:

✔ Over 21 years old
✔ Have a spare bedroom
✔ Can offer a stable and caring home
✔ Are willing to complete training and assessment

Check out our FAQ

How to Apply for Fostering in Lincolnshire

📞 Step 1: Contact Us – Get in touch for an informal chat or request our digital brochure.
📝 Step 2: Assessment & Training – We’ll guide you through the process with support at every stage.
🏡 Step 3: Welcome a Child – Begin your fostering journey with Skylark by your side.

Contact Skylark Fostering Today

Fostering in Lincolnshire is a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you are just starting to explore the idea or feel ready to take the next step, our friendly team is here to help.

Skylark Fostering supports carers across Lincolnshire, including Lincoln, Gainsborough, Skegness, Sleaford, Grantham, Louth, Horncastle, and Market Rasen.

Get in touch today and help create brighter futures for local children.

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