Tom talks We have got to make caring visible
BY RENFREWSHIRE
SOUTH MSP TOM ARTHUR
This week is Carers Week 2020, dedicated to “Making Caring Visible.”
In a time when we are mostly still in our own bubbles and not mixing with others, it can be easy to forget about the lives that others are leading.
During this pandemic, our unpaid carers have been continuing to work and look after some of the most vulnerable in society.
Some live with those that they are caring for, whilst others have to travel on public transport and take additional precautions to ensure the safety of themselves and those they are visiting.
As co-convener of the Cross Party Group on Carers at Holyrood, I am regularly reminded of the invaluable work that carers do and of the lengths that they will go to for those they care for.
Our group works to give carers a voice and to discuss the ways in which they can have equality of opportunity.
We liaise with carers’ organisations and promote legislation on carers’ behalf and raise awareness of carers, the work that they do and the challenges that they face.
Carers do not just look after individuals.
The work that they do benefits all of us. It is estimated that the support carers provide is worth more than £10.8 billion to the economy each year, equivalent to around 80 per cent of the NHS budget.
Around 10 per cent of the working population are carers and it is vital that employers recognise carers and their invaluable contribution.
The Carer Positive scheme recognises the importance of supporting employees who are carers, and ensuring that there are policies in place to help.
Having gone through the process myself to become the country’s first Carer Positive registered MSP, I know of the benefits that this brings to my office and I have spoken to employers across my constituency and encouraged them to sign up to this fantastic initiative.
For those carers who need additional support I have welcomed the announcements from the Scottish Government and the money that is being invested to support carers here in Renfrewshire South and across the country.
At the start of Carers Week, £300,000 was given to support young carers.
Around 29,000 young people are carers in Scotland and many of them don’t get the same opportunities as their peers because of their responsibilities.
This additional funding will give access to opportunities such as e-vouchers, subscription packages and short breaks.
This is in addition to the Young Carer Grant of £305 per year.
For other carers I am pleased that there has been recognition of the additional pressure that unpaid carers are under at this time, and that an additional one-off payment will be made later this month.
Eligible carers will get a payment of at least £460.20.
I have been very privileged to be able to stand up for carers and make their voices heard and to speak to local groups such as Renfrewshire Carers who provide invaluable support.
Whilst this pandemic affects us all, the work that carers do in the background continues and the constant pressure they are under is compounded by current events.
This Carers Week, let us recognise these people who do so much, let them know that we value and appreciate the work that they are doing, and Make Caring Visible.