More foster carers needed
I want to express my sincere thanks to all of the foster carers and families across Scotland as we mark The Fostering Network’s Foster Care Fortnight (1 to 14 June).
All children and young people have the right to be cared for and protected from harm, and to grow up in a safe environment.
And we have worked hard with our partners across local government and the third sector to improve how we intervene early when there are concerns about a child’s wellbeing.
In the last year we have made significant progress to improve the support for looked after children and care leavers.
Since April 16 year olds have been able to stay with their foster carers up to the age of 21, should they request it. When they are ready to leave they are now entitled to aftercare support up to the age of 26, to offer a more gradual transition to independent living. Just as our own children experience.
We are also developing new guidance with the Scottish Child Law Centre so that foster carers better understand their legal responsibilities on the everyday decisions they need to make about the children they care for. We hope to publish this source of support in the summer.
Research clearly shows that good foster carers make a world of difference to the experience of children and young people growing up in care.
They improve daily life; support progress in education; give stability and security; provide love and safety; build confidence and lay the foundations for a successful adult life.
The Scottish Government is proud to continue to support Foster Care Fortnight. We always need more foster carers and there are events taking place all across Scotland where families can find out more and judge if they are able to make the life-changing commitment to a child or young person who can no longer live with their own family.
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Foster Care Fortnight reminds us of the huge difference so many carers and families make every single day for some of Scotland’s most vulnerable children and young people.
We all owe our respect and gratitude to them – they do a remarkable job helping to give children and young people a better start in life.
Fiona McLeod MSP
Acting Minister for Children and Young People
Edinburgh
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