McAlpine backs support for carers

MSP Joan McAlpine has pledged her backing for Carers Week which begins on Monday – by committing to support local carers across Dumfries and Galloway.

 

Ms McAlpine has signed up to the Carers Week pledge to take carer friendly action – highlighting the tireless work of the 6.5 million unpaid carers across the UK and offering them any support they need. There are an estimated 788,000 unpaid carers across Scotland – with 44,000 of them under the age of 18.

 

The Scottish Government has taken decisive action to support unpaid carers – investing over £135 million in a range of programmes and initiatives to support carers and young carers, as well as passing a new Carers Act, which has come into force this year, which extends the rights of carers and ensures better support.

 

Ms McAlpine commented:

 

“The important role that carers play in our society cannot be overstated – they provide an invaluable service to their families, community and indeed to Scotland as a whole – and I am always delighted to have the opportunity to support the work that they do in Dumfries an Galloway and across society.

 

“It is estimated that there are 788,000 unpaid carers in Scotland which is why it is so important that the Scottish Government has been leading the way in providing this – investing over £135 million, as well as passing the new Carers Act in 2016, which came into force this year.

 

“And through the new Social Security Agency, the Scottish Government plans to increase Carers Allowance to the level of Job Seeker’s Allowance, giving carers that little bit extra support that can go a long way.

 

“Carers Week gives us all the chance to show our support and appreciation for the work carers do in our local communities – and I am committed to playing a positive role in this inspiring annual event.”

 

Carers Week website: https://www.carersweek.org/