Angus South Constituency MSP Graeme Dey has welcomed the coming into force of the Carers (Scotland) Act on 1st April.
The legislation provides significant new rights, improving support and recognition for unpaid carers.
Under the Carers (Scotland) Act, all people who provide unpaid care for friends, family, and neighbours will now have the right to a personalised plan. This will identify their needs and help them access information, advice and support, before reaching a crisis point.
Local authorities and health boards will work together to prepare local carer strategies, setting out their plans for identifying and supporting carers in their community. The Act also ensures carers will be involved in individual decisions about their own support and what happens when the person they look after is discharged from hospital.
Under the new rights, the definition of a carer will be extended, with the removal of the requirement for ‘substantial caring on a regular basis’, meaning more people will be able to access this support.
Mr Dey commented:
“The Act provides Carers with important rights and support so that their own health and wellbeing is looked after, and they are involved in decisions about the person they care for.
“These changes mean that NHS Tayside and Angus Council will have to do all they can to identify and support carers in Angus South.
“This legislation is, in my view, an important measure in ensuring that carers in Angus South get the help that they need.
“I look forward to seeing it implemented in the way it is envisioned it will be.”
