Money for unpaid carers

VOLUNTARY Action Shetland (VAS) has secured funding to allow unpaid carers to take a break from their responsibilities.

At least 26 families caring for adults in Shetland are in line to benefit from the award of £3,845 from the Short Breaks Fund.

This will allow unpaid carers who provide a significant amount of caring for another adult to receive up to £150 each, while young carers (under 18) are also eligible.

One example of how the money can be used is the story of a carer who bought an annual swimming membership to allow her to take a break from her responsibilities.

VAS carer support worker Kirsten Harcus said: “We are delighted to once again receive money from the Short Breaks Fund to provide grants for carers to take a break from their caring responsibilities.

“It is important for carers to receive support and valuable time out for themselves to recharge their batteries and sustain their caring role.”

VAS executive Officer Catherine Hughson added: “This small grant makes such a difference to unpaid carers to enable them to get some well deserved respite from their caring role.”

Shared Care Scotland has operated the Short Breaks Fund on behalf of the National Carers Organisations and the Scottish Government since 2011.