Are you a carer?

Since the pandemic, it is estimated that around 1 in 5 people in Scotland now provide unpaid care to a family member or friend. 

If you are a  parent, a partner, a son or daughter, a sister or brother or friend to someone who needs support as a result of their illness (physical or mental), or substance  substance misuse, or long term health condition, or disability – then you are a carer. 

In Scotland, we also use the term ‘unpaid carer’ for anyone who is providing care for a family member or friend. It doesn’t matter if you call yourself a ‘carer’ or ‘unpaid carer’, or in fact none of these terms! The important thing to remember is that there is support out there for you if you are caring for someone close to you.

This page includes information about support for you and the person you care for, as well as providing information on carers rights and other sources of information.