Fees paid to foster carers in West Dunbartonshire have been increased in the hope the extra money will attract new carers.

The move brings the council more into line with private fostering agencies and neighbouring local authorities.

It is also intended to ensure fostering is a financially-viable option for residents who want to help improve the life of a local young person.

Carers are now paid a fee and allowance per child which means all carers are better off by at least £1,300 per year if they have a child.?

Most have had a significantly bigger increase, says the council.

The council's fostering team are keen to recruit new carers to look after all children but particularly young people between 10 and 16 years and sibling groups.

The team say local people often mistakenly rule themselves out of being a carer based on incorrect myths.

These include a mistaken belief that you cannot foster if you live in rented accommodation, are over 55 years of age, in a same sex relationship or are single.

Allan MacLeod, chair of West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership (WDHSCP), said: “We are keen to speak to residents who are interested in becoming foster carers and would like to help local children stay in West Dunbartonshire.

"We currently have children living out with the area meaning they may have to move school, leaving behind extended family and friends.

"We want to ensure that residents who have a strong desire to help children by fostering are not put off because they can’t afford it.

"People do not choose to become foster carers for money but we have to ensure that it is financially viable and increasing our fees will help to achieve that."

Mr MacLeod said there was an urgent need for foster carers to look after young people between 10 and 16 years and for people who could look after sibling groups.??

He added: "People can sometimes be too quick to rule themselves out of becoming a foster carer so I would urge residents to contact our staff who will happily answer any questions you may have.”

For more information call the Fostering team on 01389 776443 and 01389 776413 or email fostering@wdc.gcsx.gov.uk