CHILDREN are being moved too many times between foster families because of a lack of provision of carers across Scotland, a charity has claimed.

A survey by the Fostering Network revealed that in the past two years, two-thirds of carers in Scotland have cared for children who have previously been moved between homes two or more times.

Almost half have looked after a child who has been moved four or more times, while one-fifth have cared for children who have had seven or more moves before coming to live with them.

Sara Lurie, director of the Fostering Network Scotland, said: "Results from this survey are worrying. Children come into care for many reasons, but it is never their fault. No matter how much their family may love them, they are unable to look after them. Some will have experienced abuse, neglect and trauma. They need a safe, stable and loving home to help turn their lives around.

"Fostering can offer them this, and there are thousands of wonderful foster families right across Scotland. But the challenge for fostering services is to find the right foster carers with the right skills in the right place for each child. We need a wider pool of foster families to ensure that this happens for all children."

Currently 5000 children live with 4300 foster families across Scotland. The charity estimates a further 850 foster families are needed over the next 12 months, particularly for teenagers, sibling groups and children with disabilities. It says that because of the shortage, local authorities are struggling to find the best possible home for a child in need of foster care.

Many are being moved too far away from their families, split up from siblings and being forced to move school.

Others live with a foster carer who has space, but may not have the experience and skills to meet their specific needs, which can result in multiple, damaging moves.