With the help of Still Game star Jane McCarry, the Scottish government has launched a new campaign encouraging Scots who care for someone to reach out for emotional and practical support.

Ms McCarry is ambassador for the new campaign focused on helping the estimated 1.1 million carers in Scotland access resources including financial advice and mental health support.

Making the announcement at the eighth Carers’ Parliament held online today, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said the “absolutely essential contribution” made by unpaid carers had been demonstrated more clearly than ever over the course of this year as they proved themselves to be “essential” in helping get the country through the pandemic.

Scotland now has more than a million unpaid carers as a result of the pandemic after an estimated 392,000 people started supporting loved ones who are older, disabled or living with a relative with a physical or mental illness.

As a carer for her mother, Ms McCarry says she knows first-hand how challenging it can be looking after a close friend, neighbour or family member, but that help is out there:

“The working day doesn’t end yet you never view your responsibility as a burden because you’re ‘just’ looking after someone you love.

“The reality, however, is hard – both mentally and physically – and sometimes we all need some support, be it counselling, peer support sessions or even just sitting down for a virtual cuppa with someone who knows what you’re going through.

“I’d encourage anyone in a caring role to seek out the support that’s on offer to them.”

The first days of this year’s Carers’ Parliament took place last week and saw Professor Jason Leitch – Scotland’s National Clinical Director – assure carers there would be no return to the policy of shielding rolled out at the start of the pandemic.

At the start of this month, a battle plan for social care was published by the Scottish government to help the sector through the unprecedented challenge posed by a second rise in virus cases as winter arrives.

Carers can call 0800 0113200 or visit https://www.nhsinform.scot/campaigns/support-for-unpaid-carers for more information on support.

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