carers manifesto launched

A download version of the Carers Manifesto will be available from this site shortly.  You can also order hard copies from by phoning us on 01383 662462. 

www.scotlandscarersmanifesto.comOn December 8th  ‘Carers Rights Day’, Shared Care Scotland along with Crossroads Scotland, Carers Scotland, The Princess Royal Trust for Carers, the Coalition of Carers in Scotland and the Young Carers Alliance will publish a six point manifesto to improve the quality and life chances of Scotland’s half a million unpaid carers.  The manifesto challenges the political parties to recognise the immense contribution that carers make to society by committing to action to support carers in their role and address inequalities.

The manifesto identifies six rights and entitlements:

v      Every carer has a right to Good Health;

v      Every carer will be able to have regular, accessible and appropriate breaks from caring;

v      Every carer will have access to appropriate local support;

v      Every carer will be able to receive training to support their caring role;

v      Every child and young person with caring responsibilities has a right to be a child first;

v      Every carer has a right to live free of poverty with opportunities to take part in work, lifelong learning and leisure.

Under each heading there are three to four statements describing the action needed.  On short breaks and respite provision we are seeking:

v      A minimum annual entitlement for those carers in greatest need, with breaks tailored to individual needs and circumstances;

v      An additional ring fenced investment of £135 million to help increase the range, volume and quality of breaks;

v      The development of national and locally produced short break strategies to be measured against clearly defined improvement targets.