Carers Losing Millions In Unclaimed Support

Tens of thousands of Scots carers are missing out on millions of pounds in support payments.

Carers Scotland says 30 thousand don't know about the Carer's Allowance.

657 thousand Scots who look after a loved one - the charity says they're not fully equipped to do so.

Director of Carers Scotland, Simon Hodgson said: 

“Taking on a new caring role can happen quite suddenly and people can be thrown into a situation which turns their lives upside down. It could be because a partner has a stroke, a parent has a fall or a child is born with a disability.

It’s vital that anyone caring for a loved one seeks advice to ensure they are getting the services and support they are entitled to.  

“Without help and assistance carers can find themselves facing financial hardship, health problems, emotional stress and relationship breakdown.

"They can be pushed to breaking point. This has serious consequences for individuals and families and for employers and the economy as a whole.

“A third of people caring at any one time will be new to that role. This presents a big challenge for services, local authorities and the NHS as they need to identify and reach out to new carers who are not accessing essential help and support. With the integration of health and social care and a new Carers Bill in progress, it’s an opportunity to make this happen for carers.”