Statement from Coalition of Carers in Scotland
We welcome the passing of the Care Reform Bill in the Scottish Parliament yesterday. This is a vital first step for ensuring that unpaid carers in Scotland have a legal right to breaks from caring.
Along with the other national carer organisations, we have been campaigning for a right to breaks from caring for a number of years.
The passing of the Bill is a huge step forward for Scotland’s 800,000 unpaid carers – many of whom are running on empty, juggling impossible demands with little or no support.
The introduction of this new right has the potential to be truly life-changing. But we know that rights only matter if they can be realised.
Turning this commitment into something carers can actually access will take time, funding, and serious action – especially around investment in suitable replacement care.
We’ll be working closely with the Scottish Government and partners to make sure this right isn’t just on paper, but becomes a reality that gives carers the rest, recognition, and balance they have needed for far too long.
Further information about the Care Reform (Scotland) Bill is available here.