In relation to the recommendations in Hidden Harm - Next Steps: Supporting Children Working with Parents, what plans it has to improve supp…

The Scottish Government recognises the adverse effect that young caring can have on the social, emotional and mental development of children and young people. That is why Scottish ministers have made support for all young carers a priority. This includes those children and young people caring for parents with substance misuse problems.
We have already put measures in place to begin to improve support for young carers. This includes the publication of the young carers services self-evaluation guide last June. This guide will enable all services in contact with young carers to assess the provision they make for this group, ensuring the best possible support is available. It focuses on delivering positive outcomes for young carers, achieved through partnership working.
In addition, Scottish ministers provided funding to support the development of Scotland''s first national young carers festival. This event provided Scottish young carers with a voice and a national platform to have their views heard. It also raised the profile of this vulnerable group. Following the success of this first festival, I was delighted to announce funding to support two further festivals in 2009 and 2010.
Looking ahead, we are revising the National Carers Strategy for Scotland, in partnership with COSLA. This Strategy will include a lift out young carers section, focusing on the specific needs of this group. This section will be informed by the comments raised by the young carers who attended the festival last September. It will focus on identifying and supporting the needs of all young carers, including those caring for a parent with substance misuse problems, to ensure positive outcomes for this group.