In response the launch of the independent Care Review in Scotland yesterday, chief executive of The Fostering Network, Kevin Williams, said:

'We welcome the launch of the Care Review and look forward to continuing to support Fiona Duncan as chair and working with the group to share the views of our members in Scotland.

'It is fantastic to see such a comprehensive plan for the review which will consider legislation, practices, culture and ethos, as well as consulting looked after young people and those involved in their care. Including this broad range of opinions is essential to improving outcomes for all looked after children and young people.

'It is, however, essential that this review does not further prolong the Scottish Government’s inaction on their decade-old pledge to introduce minimum fostering allowances to Scotland. By finally implementing minimum fostering allowances the Scottish Government would remove the current postcode lottery for fostered children and offer a superior level of commitment which fostered children and young people already receive in all other nations of the UK. Such action would also back up the sentiment of First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, at the launch of the Care Review, where she said: ‘Every young person should have an equal opportunity to succeed in life, no matter their circumstances.’

Details of the members of the Care Review group can be found here.