Carers have a right to take a break

Shared Care Scotland is launching a comprehensive survey on carers experiences of short breaks and respite services in Scotland.

The organisation said that with a new “right to a break” in development, it has never been more important to put carers voices at the heart of decision-making.

Chief executive Don Williamson said: “At Shared Care Scotland all of our work is informed by the voices of carers and those involved in developing and delivering meaningful short breaks.

“We try to uphold the principle of ‘nothing about me without me’ which is why getting the views of the diverse range of carers in Scotland is so vital at this pivotal point.

“The development of the Right to a Break from caring is a critically important step forward for unpaid carers. It has the chance to fundamentally change carers experiences for the better, but this right will only be met if there is short breaks and respite infrastructure in place to deliver it.

“Understanding the needs and wants, and the experiences of carers is an essential part of this process and we would encourage as many carers as possible to take part in our survey.”

Shared Care Scotland is also encouraging organisations that work with carers to share details of the survey.

Full details can be found on their website: carers survey