New scheme to help children leaving care

A NEW partnership has been forged to help bridge the gap between youngsters leaving care and enjoying complete independence.

By The Newsroom

Published 22nd Nov 2010, 12:07 BST

Updated 23rd Nov 2010, 10:36 BST

The new service, the Lothian Supported Carers Scheme (LSCS), is the first one of its kind in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

The scheme, which was launched recently, will be operated by Barnardo's Scotland in Edinburgh and a partnership between Barnardo's Scotland and West Lothian, Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian councils.

The aim is to support young people who have been looked after by the local authority until reaching the age of 16.

Cash from the Big Lottery Fund Scotland has allowed the scheme to recruit 20 supported carers but more are still needed.

For more information, call 0131-561 1386 or visit www.barnardos.org.uk/LSCS