Support services

Anyone can become an unpaid carer, at any time in their lives. If you do become an unpaid carer you may be faced with one or more of the following:

  • A lack of information, support, respect or recognition from professionals.
  • Being unsure of your rights and entitlements and the support you can access.
  • Issues with your own physical or mental health.
  • Difficulties with your employer or education provider.
  • Losing your sense of self and maintaining a life outside of your unpaid caring responsibilities.

Carers Trust Scotland and our network of local carer organisations provide services to support an unpaid carer's individual and changing needs throughout their caring journey.

Local support

We are connected to a unique network of local carer organisations across Scotland. Some of the ways these local carer organisations can support you is by:

  • Access to an Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carer Statement.
  • Providing access to often desperately-needed short breaks or respite. 
  • Giving information, advice or guidance.
  • Offering advice on education, training and employment. 
  • Helping you to access services to maintain or support your physical or mental health and wellbeing, and offering support so that you do not feel isolated.
  • Running support schemes for young carers or unpaid carer authorisation card schemes. 
  • Support to emergency planning.
  • Support to maximise your income.
  • Signpost you to other local services that meet your needs and circumstances.

Find your local carer organisation or call us on 0300 772 7701 or email scotland@carers.org.