CARERS of WEST LOTHIAN
 Providing Support, Information and a A Voice for Carers in West Lothian

Carers Rights Day in West Lothian

Friday 2nd December marked the sixth annual National Carers Rights Day. The theme this year was on Supporting Older Carers, with particular emphasis on the take up of pension credit.

Carers of West Lothian, the local carers organisation providing information and support to unpaid carers, set up an information stand, together with the Department for Work and Pensions Disability and Carers Service, and the Pension Service, in the Strathbrock Partnership Centre in Broxburn.

Jim Devine MP and Bristow Muldoon MSP pledged their support on the day with a visit to the event, during which they took time to chat with all those present. They heard about the work of the organisation in supporting adult and young carers, and about the recently launched report "The Future of Unpaid Care in Scotland" and its recommendations. The study is the first of its kind in Europe, reflecting the views of over 5,000 carers in Scotland (246 from West Lothian), and has major significance for carers in Scotland and for the future of unpaid caring.

   


Back row (L-R): Audrey Gallacher, Jim Devine MP, Bristow Muldoon MSP
Annmarie Keast, Yvonne MacDonald.
Front row(L-R): Anna McGill, Mary-Denise McKernan, Wilma Philpot.

There are an estimated 16,000 carers in West Lothian caring for family members and friends, 2,000 of which Carers of West Lothian is in regular contact with. The group is the only local organisation offering information, support and a listening ear to unpaid carers. It also provides individual and group support, in partnership with West Lothian Council, to young carers in the area.

If you are a carer for a family member or friend and would like to know more about the organisation and how it can help you, please contact the Carers Centre on the 01506 771750.