The Scottish Government has announced almost £4 million worth of funding to support carers
Scottish carers organisations are to be given a share of almost £4 milllion to help fund their projects and events over the next year, including respite breaks and a festival.
Shared Care Scotland and the Family Fund will receive the bulk of the Scottish Government cash – sharing £3m to organise voluntary-run short breaks for carers.
Half a dozen other organisations – Carers Scotland, Carers Trust Scotland, Coalition of Carers in Scotland, Crossroads Caring Scotland, Minority Ethnic Carers of Older People Project (MECOPP) and Shared Care Scotland – will share £700,000.
As part of that cash, Carers Trust Scotland has been given a contribution towards its Young Carers Festival.
Held every year in August, the festival is a chance for around 700 young carers to come together, meet other people in the same position, and take a break from their caring responsibilities.
I am particularly pleased that we have been able to continue funding the Young Carers Festival
Pete Richardson, of Carers Trust Scotland, said the money would come in useful.
“On behalf of Carers Trust, I am delighted that the Scottish Government continues to support our work to improve support, services and recognition for carers in communities across Scotland,” he said.
“Anyone can become a carer at any time in their lives, and Carers Trust Scotland will continue to work with network partners to help provide services to support a carer’s individual and changing needs throughout their caring journey.”
Announcing the funding Jamie Hepburn, minister for sport, health improvement and mental health, said: “These organisations provide a huge level of help and support to Scotland’s carers, and the commitment of their staff is beyond doubt. I believe that this funding package provides good value for money because these groups, and the projects they run, are a crucial part of the Scottish Government’s efforts to improve the lives of carers.
“I am particularly pleased that we have been able to continue funding the Young Carers Festival. When I attended the festival last year it was clear that the event was valued by the young carers present. It gives them a chance to make friends with other young people in their position.”
