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.

Skylark Fostering Supports Boo’s Book Buddies — Skylark Fostering

Skylark Fostering is proud to have recently supported **Boo’s Book Buddies**, a wonderful organisation helping to bring the joy of reading to children in the local community. 📖✨

Boo’s Book Buddies organises **Reading Treasure Hunts** by placing books into the community for children to discover, take home and enjoy. Their work helps make reading fun, accessible and exciting, giving children the opportunity to explore new stories and develop a love of books. 🌟

At Skylark Fostering, we believe every child deserves opportunities to imagine, learn, grow and feel inspired. Books can open doors to new worlds, spark confidence, and create moments of calm, joy and connection. 💛

We are delighted to support this fantastic initiative, helping put books into the hands of local children and young people. 📚

For more information about Boo’s Book Buddies, please visit their Facebook group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bj1pAA7h7/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Skylark Fostering Supports Boo’s Book Buddies

Skylark Fostering Continues Support for Nettleham Sunday Football Team