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

Cash Boost for Carers

Carers of West Lothian, the umbrella organisation supporting unpaid carers throughout the county, is delighted to announce the award of £12,500 over 2 years from Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland.

The award, which will contribute towards the post of an Outreach Carer Support Worker, will enable Carers of West Lothian to identify and offer information and support to a greater number of carers caring for a family member or friend who cannot manage on their own due to an illness, disability, frailty or addiction.

The organisation currently supports over 2,000 unpaid carers, and through working closely with GP practices and health centres in the area, has identified and offered help to 1,500 carers over the past few years.

Mary-Denise McKernan, Manager, said that "we are really excited about this funding as it enables us to continue to help more carers in West Lothian, and to offer them the information and support that they so much need".

The initiative to identify and offer support to 'hidden' carers received initial sponsorship from The Big Lottery Fund in 2003, and they are continuing to provide part funding until 2009.

If you look after a family member or friend who is disabled, ill or frail and would like information or support to help you to care, please contact Carers of West Lothian either by telephoning 01506 771750, or e-mail office@carers-westlothian.com or by dropping in to the Carers Centre (located within the Strathbrock Partnership Centre in Broxburn).

News Headlines