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.

Sponsors of Nettleham FC Men’s Sunday League Team — Skylark Fostering

Skylark Fostering is proud to sponsor **Nettleham FC Men’s Sunday League Team** once again this season.
Supporting local initiatives like this is an important part of how we stay connected to the community we serve.

Supporting Local, Supporting People

Fostering is all about community — creating safe, stable environments where people can grow and belong. Local football teams do something similar in their own way: they bring people together, promote teamwork, and build a sense of belonging. Those shared values make this partnership a natural fit.

Promoting Health and Wellbeing

Regular physical activity is good for both body and mind. Football encourages discipline, resilience, and teamwork — qualities that benefit everyone, including children and young people in foster care. We know how valuable it is for young people to have positive role models and activities that build confidence and wellbeing.

Working Together

By supporting Nettleham FC, we’re not just backing a team — we’re backing a community that values inclusion, connection, and personal growth. These are the same principles that guide our work in fostering every day.

We’re looking forward to seeing what the team achieves this season and to continuing our support for local groups that make a difference

Sponsors of Nettleham FC Men’s Sunday League Team

Supporting Children Back to School