Kinship carers look after thousands of Scottish children

It is estimated that more than 2,000 children in Scotland are cared for by relatives because the youngsters cannot be looked after by their own parents.

The relatives will be eligible for a weekly allowance of up to �198.

The move is part of an overhaul of the system to support youngsters looked after by foster and kinship carers.

The strategy was the first to be produced as a joint commitment by the Scottish Government and local government umbrella group Cosla.

Better training

It will introduce a minimum weekly allowance of between �119 and �198 for all carers - putting kinship carers on a par with foster carers.

An information and advice service will be introduced for kinship carers.

The strategy will also seek to improve assessment and approval processes and provide better training and support for all carers.

I want it to be a model of good partnership to help improve the lives of those in our most vulnerable families Adam Ingram Children's Minister

Children's Minister Adam Ingram said: "Removing any child from the care of their parents is an enormous step with huge responsibilities and that's why the measures announced today are so important.

"This strategy is a significant way forward for bolstering the support given to carers and the children they look after.

"The delivery of this strategy relies on a fundamental relationship between this government and our colleagues in local government and I want it to be a model of good partnership to help improve the lives of those in our most vulnerable families."

Cosla spokeswoman Isabel Hutton said: "We are keen to ensure that all children have a stable and happy life, and that as councils we fulfil our role as a corporate parent.

"The strategy demonstrates our shared vision and joint commitment to the principles of the approach, and for the necessary action to be taken."

Conservative spokeswoman Liz Smith said the strategy was "very welcome".