A MINISTER has paid tribute to the “extraordinary contribution” made by kinship carers, as the Scottish government publishes proposals to extend support.

Kinship care, where a child is placed with a relative or family friend as an alternative to residential or foster care, is now the most common placement away from home for looked-after children in Scotland, but support can vary from council to council.

Launching a consultation on the latest Vision for Kinship Care, which aims to baseline support across the country, children, young people and the promise minister Natalie Don-Innes said: “Kinship carers make an extraordinary contribution to our society, often stepping in at a moment’s notice to provide care and stability for children within their family network.

“Their contribution is vital to wider efforts to keep the promise, and they deserve our recognition and support.”

Joanne McMeeking, from the Centre for Excellence for Children’s Care and Protection, said: “Kinship care is at the heart of families and communities, enabling children to stay connected and feel loved.

“We look forward to working with others on the development of the vision.”