Carers Gateway launches in North Ayrshire
The scheme will support thousands of unpaid carers in the region
Last updated 24th Nov 2023
North Ayrshire Council marked Carers Rights Day with the launch of the rebranded Carers Gateway.
The scheme will offer better support for the estimated 14,000 unpaid carers in the region.
Charity Unity will operate the Gateway, as part of an expansion of the already existing Carers Centre in Irvine, in working with the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership.
It will also work with schools to support young carers continue their education.
Young carers worker Holly says it’s important to work with schools so they can have some level of normality, even if that looks different for each person.
1 in 3 young people in Ayr are young carers
She said: “They can access a young carers statement that will look into their caring role and see how the school can support them, maybe with soft starts, part time timetable, accessing one to one support within school with the young carers worker.
“Giving them opportunities to alleviate the stresses and worries of being a young carer.”
One in three young people in Ayrshire are young carers, but many do not realise, as it looks different for everyone.
Holly added: “People often think it’s terminal illness, or severe disability, but it’s mental health, it’s addiction, you’re maybe translating for your parents where English is your second language, it’s everything like that and in between.”
Unity’s Chief Executive, Fraser Bedwell, said: “Carers are the unsung heroes of our health and care services.
“They work tirelessly for their loved ones, often with little recognition or reward.”
Giving carers that recognition and respite is something the Gateway will work to provide.
North Ayrshire carers champion Councillor Nairn McDonald said: “Respite isn’t that general going away for a couple of days to a caravan, it’s being able to get into the garden, being able to get onto a bike, being able to get some equipment, maybe some IT equipment, whatever it is to give that carer a small break.
14,000 unpaid carers in North Ayrshire
“What we do know is that over Covid, carers health, personal health and physical health, decreased dramatically.”
That comes just a day after a Carers Scotland survey revealed the system is in “crisis”.
Cllr McDonald, himself an unpaid carer, added: “Caring can greatly impact physical and mental wellbeing.
“We urge unpaid carers to seek support this Carers Right Day and year-round. Help is available – you do not have to do this alone.”