Foster carers in Dundee look set to get increases in their allowances.

Carers have been working with the city's social services department to draw up improvements and future developments to the service costing £2.3m.

A report to the city council's social work committee this month highlighted the key role that foster carers play in looking after children who cannot live with their own families.

Social work convener councillor Betty Ward said: "There is a need to recognise the crucial role that foster carers play in caring for youngsters who may include children who have had experienced some difficulties in their lives.

"It is because there is such a variety of needs to be met that we have to ensure that there is a wide range of foster carers to provide the type of care that these children need.

"The strategy aims to ensure that Dundee is in a position to meet those needs and this has been very much a partnership initiative, having been drawn up after full consultation and with the full agreement of foster carers."

The report acknowledged the extra tasks that foster carers are now expected to undertake.

Anyone in Dundee who would like information about becoming a foster carer can call 01382 436060.