Speaking out for our 18,000 unsung heroes
Carers centre joins national information day
Almost 18,000 carers are looking after friends or family without being paid every day in Renfrewshire.
A total of 17, 759, 10 per cent of the area’s population, are working up to 50 unpaid hours every week to offer support to those in need.
Now an annual event, being held tomorrow, wants to enable those people to have their voices heard.
Renfrewshire Carers Centre, in Paisley, is taking part in national Carers Act Information Day by hosting a consultation on the new Renfrewshire Carers Strategy for 2019- 2022 from 10.30am to 2.30pm.
The informal event will share information on the Carers Act and Carers Rights and give carers the opportunity to talk to staff and ask questions.
Diane Goodman, centre manager at Renfrewshire Carers Centre, said: “Far too often do we find that people caring for a loved one don’t know what support is available to them.
“We will be able to talk people through the new legislation and what it means for them.
“We are delighted to be marking Carers Rights Day by welcoming carers from across Renfrewshire to our centre to find out what their rights are and what support they are entitled to.”
A light lunch will be provided and carers will have the opportunity to voice their opinions on how Renfrewshire can best support carers in the Carers Strategy Consultation.
“The new Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 has placed more responsibility on local authorities to ensure carers have support,” explained Diane. “It is vital that carers know what this legislation means for them and their families.
“All carers, no matter how big or small their roles are, all are welcome. If a carer can’t make it please contact us and we would be happy to help.”
The event will also highlight how the carers centre can assist selfless relatives in their caring journey from advocacy and advice, to befriending and social activities.
One person who has benefited greatly from the support of the carers centre is Phyllis Robertson.
She said: “I feel that without the intervention and support of the carers centre, I would not be where I am today.”
If you are looking for some information, be sure to drop into Renfrewshire Carers Centre tomorrow between 10.30am and 2.30pm.
The carers centre can be contacted on 0141 887 3643 or visit www. refrewshirecarers.org.uk