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Carers Rights Day
07/12/2007
The contribution made to Scotland by unpaid carers was today, Carers Rights Day, recognised by Minister for Public Health Shona Robison.
Ahead of a visit to The Princess Royal Trust Dundee Carers Centre, Ms Robison said:
"The Scottish Government is totally committed to ensuring our 600,000 unpaid carers receive the recognition and support they so deserve.
"I am delighted to be visiting the centre today and offer my support to the launch of a new carers strategy by Dundee City Council in partnership with key organisations to achieve better outcomes for Dundee's 14,000 carers.
"This strategy recognises the rights of carers and will ensure all carers are recognised as key partners to address their diverse needs.
"Many carers are unaware of the rights they already have, including the right to request flexible working. Today is Carers Rights Day and it is appropriate that this strategy is being launched.
"We are determined to help more carers across Scotland access the information and support they need to protect their own health and to continue caring effectively."
The Scottish Government made support for unpaid carers a priority in the recent Scottish Spending Review. The new Concordat with the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities includes a commitment to make progress towards delivering an extra 10,000 respite weeks per annum.
Funds will rise to £5 million per year for the NHS to implement Carer Information Strategies. This will enable NHS Boards to do more to identify carers and provide vital information and training - working with local carer centres and extending their services.