Thursday 28 March 2024
 6.4°C   NE Fresh Breeze
Ocean Kinetics - The Engineering Experts

Community / Gift bags given to unpaid carers

Organisations involved in delivering gift bags to carers across the isles were Moira Bell of RVS, Kirsten Harcus form VAS Carers Support Service, as well as Ann Skwara and Nicola Stove, both British Red Cross.

NEARLY 270 gift bags have been provided to unpaid carers across the isles by Voluntary Action Shetland (VAS).

The organisation’s carers support service initially received £2,000 from the Corra Foundation to buy gift bags for young carers and parent carers of someone aged under 18 with additional support needs.

VAS was also able to buy more gift bags for all other carers registered with their service after securing money from the Scottish Government’s supporting communities fund.

Its own volunteers as well as helpers from the Royal Voluntary Service and British Red Cross helped to deliver the 269 packages.

VAS carers support worker Kirsten Harcus said: “We know things have been hard for carers with support networks reduced and many services suspended.

“We thought the gift bags would be something nice that would encourage carers to take a bit of time out for themselves at home.

“The gift bags contain a gift voucher from a range of local shops as well as some colouring and puzzle activities, some practical and pampering items.”

Gillian Bain, whose gift bag was recently delivered by RVS, said: “Thank you so much my for care package you kindly delivered to me, it was so lovely and much appreciated. It’s good to know others are thinking of you at this difficult time.’’

VAS executive officer Catherine Hughson added: “It is so important that we recognise and continue to support the unpaid carers in our community not only during this difficult challenging time but going forward into the future.”

The organisation’s carers service can be contacted on 01595 743 980, at carers@shetland.org or through www.shetlandcarers.org

Become a supporter of Shetland News

Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.

Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.

Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has  over 600 supporters  who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.

Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -

  • Bring you the headlines as they happen;
  • Stay editorially independent;
  • Give a voice to the community;
  • Grow site traffic further;
  • Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.

 

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

We're committed to ensuring everyone has equitable access to impartial, open and quality local journalism that benefits all residents.

By supporting Shetland News, you play a vital role in ensuring we remain a pivotal resource in supporting the community.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.