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.

Fostered and Flourishing

27 May

Written By Trish Kelly

**At Skylark Fostering, we are always honoured to hear from individuals with lived experience of the care system.**

Recently, we met a gentleman who was previously fostered during his childhood in Australia. He generously offered to share his personal journey, reflecting on both the challenges and positive moments he encountered while in foster care. His hope is that by speaking openly, he can offer encouragement and reassurance to young people currently experiencing similar circumstances.
We are grateful for his openness and proud to share his story with our community…

“I was born in Australia and lived in the rainforest in an off-grid property on the northeast coast of NSW. My mother was a drug addict with most likely schizophrenia. As the relationship and home life deteriorated, I ran away at 12 years old after living in a tent and in surrounding farm buildings for a few months.
I had various foster families and a boy’s home and just under a year later was lucky to get permanently fostered until 18 by a family friend.
At the time I’m sure I was a challenging child, now I’m older I can fully appreciate the good foster carers and the impact they had on changing the course of my life. As much as the negative experiences take time to reflect on, it’s what often the positive ones are matched against and I’m grateful for those who gave me a shot at a normal life with structure, guidance, and a safe home environment.
I have a business in the UK now, 2 properties and a Fiancé and most people wouldn’t have a clue if they met me. Thats definitely a bi product of a good foster family.”

Trish Kelly

Fostered and Flourishing

At Skylark Fostering, we are always honoured to hear from individuals with lived experience of the care system.

Skylark Fostering and CHARMS