Renfrewshire South MSP Tom Arthur has welcomed a new weekly allowance being provided by the Scottish Government for foster and kinship carers.

The Scottish Recommended Allowance aims to ensure that foster and kinship carers can fully support the children and young people in their care.

The weekly allowance, which is backdated to April 1, 2023, will see eligible foster and kinship carers receive a minimum of £168.31 for children aged four and under, £195.81 for five to 15-years-olds and £268.41 for those aged 16 and over.

Mr Arthur, whose constituency stretches from Johnstone to Barrhead, said foster and kinship carers perform a "vital role" supporting young people, often under very intense financial pressure.

The SNP man added: "This positive step from the SNP will have a direct and significant impact that will see thousands of families able to better support some of the most vulnerable young people in Renfrewshire South.

"At a time when many families are struggling with Westminster’s cost-of-living crisis, it is very welcome that the SNP Scottish Government is focusing on the principles of equality, opportunity and community to ensure that all young people in our society are fully supported to reach their potential."