This strategy is about supporting unpaid carers in East Ayrshire.
A carer is someone who helps a family member, friend, or neighbour who cannot manage on their own. Caring can be rewarding, but it can also be hard. Carers need the right support at the right time.
Our vision
We want every carer to feel:
- valued
- supported
- respected
- able to have a life outside caring
About carers
Carers can be children, young people, adults or older people. Carers look after people with:
- illness
- disability
- dementia
- learning difficulties
- mental health issues
- substance use issues
Many carers do not think of themselves as carers.
Why we need a carers strategy
Carers help our health and social care system. Carers’ health and wellbeing can be affected by caring. We want carers to:
- stay healthy
- get support early
- be involved in decisions
- take breaks from caring
What carers told us
Carers said they need:
- clearer information
- more breaks and respite
- better financial support
- help with stress and loneliness
- more understanding from professionals
Young carers said they need:
- chances to relax and have fun
- help at school
- support with friendships
- confidence building
Our five priorities
Health, wellbeing, respite and enjoyable activities
We will:
- make it easier to get short breaks and respite
- support carers’ mental health
- offer fun and social activities
- work with community groups
Money, work and education
We will:
- help carers get the benefits they are entitled to
- support carers to find and stay in work Support young carers moving into college, training, or jobs
- promote flexible working for carers
Carers’ voices and inclusion
We will:
- listen to carers and involve them in decisions
- raise awareness of carers in schools, workplaces, and communities
- reduce stigma
- train staff to understand carers’ needs
Support, information and care transitions
We will:
- give carers information that is simple and easy to find
- make support more visible in communities
- involve carers in hospital discharge
- offer early support to stop crises
Digital and technology
We will:
- offer online learning and support
- use technology to keep carers supported and connected
- share information online
- establish a carers strategy implementation group
- monitor progress regularly and involve carers in evaluation
- adapt the plan as needs and circumstances change
- be open about financial challenges and work with carers on solutions
How we will check progress
We will:
- establish a carers strategy implementation group
- monitor progress regularly and involve carers in evaluation
- adapt the plan as needs and circumstances change
- be open about financial challenges and work with carers on solutions