Carers Scotland Act
Carers Act 2024
“This is such an important development in employment rights and recognition for carers. The Carer’s Leave Act brings bringing vitally needed employment support for nearly a quarter of a million carers across Scotland and will help many people who may currently be struggling to remain in employment because of the challenges they face with caring responsibilities outside of work.
“Having this statutory entitlement to take time off will remove much of the stress many carers experience in their workplace, providing them with confidence, security and practical support. The flexibility in how this is taken is important too - it might be a day or two following a hospital discharge, half a day to take someone to a clinical appointment, or a full week if required.
“The new right could be the difference in enabling a carer to stay in employment, which is not only crucial for carers and their families, but also for employers who might otherwise lose skilled and valuable members of staff. In short, the Carers Leave Act will benefit a great many carers, support staff retention across organisations, and benefit the wider economy.”
Carers Act 2016
If you’re caring for someone in Scotland, lots of support is available. Much of this is provided under the Carers Act.
The Scottish Government's Carers’ charter tells you more about your rights under the Act and there are a range of organisations on hand to give you any information or support you may need.
Your local council or carers centre are great places to start. They will work with you to create your own personalised plan (called an adult carer support plan), focusing on what’s most important to you.
If your needs for support, as detailed in your plan, meet the local eligibility criteria in your area, you will be entitled to support to meet those needs. Even if you don’t meet the criteria, many areas have support open to all carers.
There are similar plans for young carers called young carer statements.