Argyll and Bute Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) is pleased to support Carers Rights Day today, Thursday, 21 November. This national event marks the massive commitment made by thousands of unpaid people across the UK.
1 in 6 adults have unpaid caring responsibilities for someone with a longstanding illness or disability. For many people, looking after a loved one who is ill, frail or disabled is something they do out of love and because it feels like the right thing to do. The HSCP is keen for people to recognise themselves as a carer and their rights.
The HSCP recognise the outstanding work carried out by local carer centres across Argyll and Bute. The Carers' Centres are run by charitable organisations. They can support Carers to complete an Adult Carer Support Plan (ACSP) or Young Carer Statement (YCS) which helps identify a wide range of information, support and services that could benefit the carer.
Kirsty MacKenzie, Carers Act Implementation Officer said: “An Adult Carer Support Plan helps carers to think about what support they might need to continue in their caring role. The plan helps to identify any needs carers may have and how they could be met.
“Through the amazing services provided by Argyll and Bute Carers Centres, carers can easily access a wide range of support this can be anything from support to applying for benefits, a listening ear, training, a short break, or emergency and future planning."
The HSCP is encouraging carers to come forward and contact Argyll and Bute Carers Centres to find out about the support available and how to access services that can help support a caring role.
Carers should contact their local carer centres, the local social work team, or their GP, who can also signpost them to support available.
Notes for editors
Argyll and Bute Carer Centres's contact details are as follows:
North Argyll Carer Centre 01631 564422
North Argyll Crossroads 01631 562168
Dochas Carer Centre 01546 600022
Helensburgh Carer Centre 01463 673444 (adults) 01463 670555 (young carers)
Crossroads Cowal & Bute 01369 707700 (adults) 01369 704492 (young carers)
Mid Argyll Youth Development Service 01546 603231.