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.

Real Feedback. Real Support. — Skylark Fostering

At Skylark Fostering, we work hard throughout the assessment of prospective foster carers and beyond approval to provide consistent, high-quality support.

As Co-Founders, Trish and Tim are proud of what we’ve achieved so far. We also know how much care, time, and teamwork goes into completing thorough assessments and then continuing to walk alongside carers in their fostering journey. That’s why it means so much when others take the time to share their experience of our service.

In January 2026, we were delighted to receive such positive feedback from one of our foster carers and one of our assessing social workers. Their comments reflect the strengths we strive for every day, professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine support. Please see their feedback below.

***Skylark Fostering Foster Carer – January 2026:***
“Skylark fostering are a Lincolnshire based agency which is local to us. They offered great knowledge and experience within the fostering industry. Upon enquiring we really clicked with the agency’s views and aspirations and felt we would have great support from them. We transferred from another agency, therefore understanding the assessment process. The process can feel long but skylark were honest with everything happening behind the scenes. Panel was great and Skylark transferred us with ease once approved.
The support from Skylark has been fantastic. They are able to advise and step in when needed. Their wealth of knowledge shows. I know I am able to reach out day or night. Couldn’t ask for more from an agency.”

***Independent Assessing Social Worker – January 2026:***
“I wanted to share how positive my experience has been as a recent assessor with Skylark. The support I have received at every stage, from the assessment agreement through to the midpoint review, final consultation and panel, has been exceptional.
The references and checks completed by the BSO (Business Support Officer) have always been handled promptly, efficiently. The assessment manager has consistently been flexible, approachable, and available when needed. I have also really valued the recognition shown for my work throughout the process.
The experience has been both refreshing and genuinely supportive, and I am grateful for the professionalism and encouragement I have received. The team is amazing... Thank you Skylark”

Feedback like this reassures us that our values are being felt in practice, and it motivates us to keep raising the standard of support we provide.

Want to learn more? Request our digital brochure today and take a look at what support with Skylark can feel like from day one.

Real Feedback. Real Support.

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