Help for Carers (Scotland)

There are about 500,000 carers in Scotland. Carers are people who regularly provide voluntary care for relatives or friends who are unable to look after themselves.

If you are a carer, we want to do more to help you. We set out our 'Strategy for carers in Scotland' on 24 November 1999. The strategy has five main aims.

• We want to improve the information on help and support for carers.
• We want to add to, and improve, the local services that help carers to cope.
• We have introduced plans for new laws that will help carers.
• We want to make sure there are consistent national standards for short breaks.
• We will check that carers are getting the help they need.

If you are a young carer (aged under 18) we think you have special needs. We think you may benefit from having someone to talk to or having time to be with your friends.

If you are still at school, you will be able to get help from your teachers. We have made information packs available to all primary, secondary and independent schools. The pack will give you advice on your rights. It will also tell you what help and support is available.