Food guide for children living in care

EVERY children's home in the Lothians is to be handed a nutrition guide in a bid to improve the quality of food and impact it has on residents.

It is similar to instructions handed to schools, and ministers said it should have a long-term positive effect.

The Scottish Government guidelines urges residential facilities for children to increase the amount of fruit and vegetable provided, reduce saturated fat, sugar and salt and cut back on fizzy drinks.

Children's minister Adam Ingram said: "We want all our children and young people to understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including ensuring they develop the practical skills and knowledge to be able to choose a healthy diet.

"The guidelines published recognise that for some young people, residential care is their main home environment and has a unique part to play in their care, health and wellbeing."