Plans to give carers more support

AN ARMY of carers who save councils and the NHS millions of pounds are to be identified by the Scottish Government and given more support.

Plans have been announced to spend 5 million over the next five years searching out people who care voluntarily for a loved one but who might not be receiving all the available help.

Public health minister Shona Robison has laid out the 10-point Caring Together plan to provide more respite for carers, invest in more care centres and promote "carer friendly" practices for employers.

Ms Robison said: "Carers of all ages make a huge contribution to their families and to society.

"Their efforts help their loved ones to continue living independently - and their contribution as unpaid workers to health and social care - is worth an estimated 7.68 billion pounds a year.

"Caring Together makes clear that we rely on carers. Our commitments in areas such as training, carer participation, health, rights and employment signify a new deal for them.

"They are equal partners in the care of their loved ones, and their needs must be acknowledged and met by our NHS and social work systems.

"This strategy has been compiled with help from carers themselves and it's clear that this is hugely important for them."