SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE

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If you are a carer, we want to do more to help you. We set out our 'Strategy for carers in Scotland' on 24 November 1999. The strategy has five main aims.

• We want to improve the information on help and support for carers.
• We want to add to, and improve, the local services that help carers to cope.
• We have introduced plans for new laws that will help carers.
• We want to make sure there are consistent national standards for short breaks.
• We will check that carers are getting the help they need.

If you are a young carer (aged under 18) we think you have special needs. We think you may benefit from having someone to talk to or having time to be with your friends.

If you are still at school, you will be able to get help from your teachers. We have made information packs available to all primary, secondary and independent schools. The pack will give you advice on your rights. It will also tell you what help and support is available.

New Services

• From April 2000, local authority funding will include £10 million a year for carers' services. This should mean more help for you.
• Local authorities should consult with
• local carers' groups and other local organisations to make sure that this
• money is spent on providing the services you need.
• We are encouraging local authorities to provide services that are imaginative and flexible enough to help you care.
• If you have any ideas on how the money should be spent, please get in touch with your local carers' group.

Standards

We have set up a National Care Standards Committee. It is their job to set standards for care services. They will also set standards for short breaks.

As a carer you may be charged for some services. At the moment, these charges vary from one authority to another. We are currently considering whether charges can be made the same throughout Scotland.

Information

Sometimes you just don't know where to go for help. From 1 April 2000, the NHS helpline will provide information about the support services available in your area.

0800 22 44 88

The NHS helpline will also be able to tell you:

• what financial help is available;
• details of carers' groups in your area; and
• contact points for national organisations that help carers throughout Scotland.

If the helpline staff cannot help you, they will direct you to someone who can.

The NHS helpline is a freephone service.

You can find more information at our website: www.scotland.gov.uk

Our website is also linked to a national carers' website.

Where to Find help

We want anybody caring for relatives or friends to get the support they need.

We are currently working with voluntary agencies, local authorities and local health boards to make sure that carers know what help is available.

You can find out what help is available by contacting:

• local authority social services,
• your doctor; and
• local carers' organisations.

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