Carers in the spotlight

Feb 1 2011 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

AROUND 50 unpaid carers and their representatives have put Perthshire politicians under the spotlight.

A hustings event hosted by Perth and Kinross Carers Centre – the carers’ services department of the local charity PKAVS – saw carers seek answers on key issues of concern.

The panel comprised John Swinney MSP and Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, Gordon Banks MP, Murdo Fraser MSP, Dr Richard Simpson MSP and Councillor Peter Barrett.

Responsible for saving the Scottish Government an estimated £7.68 billion a year, unpaid carers quizzed politicians on how individual parties would be prioritising carers in their manifestos.

Carers expressed fears about potential service cuts to short breaks, respite care and rural services, and urged politicians to see them as partners and involve them in consultation on changes to local services.

With one in eight of the population taking on an unpaid caring role for a family member, friend or neighbour, carers organisations highlighted the importance of ensuring carers had access to information and advice to support them in their roles.

PKAVS carers’ services manager Margaret Jackson declared: “Our carers’ centre provides any local carer with support.

“Several carers we are in contact with have acknowledged the importance of the voluntary sector providing carers with services that are not ‘mainstream.’

“Staff still guide carers to statutory services, which are invaluable, but we feel that we provide something additional. Like a secret ingredient in a recipe, everyone wants to have it.

“We are very pleased that our elected politicians have supported us in this event.”

The event was one of many which take place across the UK to mark national Carers Rights Day.

Dr Simpson said: “Carers are a vital part of the support systems for many vulnerable people and their contribution is beyond price.

“They themselves must be supported with training, short breaks and care plans which give them the security of knowing that the person they care for will still have help, if a crisis arises.”

Mr Fraser added: “Carers play a fundamental role in our society and require support, resources and respite to enable them to provide the care for loved ones who depend on them.

“It is only right that political parties provide the support and respect that carers show day in, day out. I fully support Scotland’s Carers Manifesto declaration that carers must have the same rights and opportunities as other citizens.”

Mr Banks maintained: “These events are very useful in hearing directly from carers not only about the challenges in their lives but also how rewarding it can be to take care of a loved one.

“The recent change in government in Westminster and their sustained campaign of benefit cuts will have serious implications for many of my constituents and I will be doing all I can to support them through what will be a difficult period.”

And Mr Swinney added: “I have been a long-standing supporter of carers and young carers, in particular. Carers perform such a valuable service to the community and their selfless efforts deserve to be supported.”