Carers Act

The Carers (Scotland) Act became law in 2016 and was implemented on 1st April 2018. It is a landmark piece of legislation because it gives carers more rights than ever before and places a duty on local authorities to uphold those rights.

The intention of the Act is to deliver preventative, personalised support which empowers carers through choice and control.

Carers Act, Scotland

2016

The Act sits within the wider context of the Scottish Government's intention to build a fairer Scotland and strong sustainable economy; tackling inequalities in society; and delivering public services in communities.

The Borders Carers Centre aims to provide preventative, personalised support to empower carers through improved choice and control.

Bespoke Training

It is important that all professionals understand their duties and responsibilities under the Act. The Borders Carers Centre offer robust, succinct and relevant training which is tailor made for you and your team to make sure you are meeting your legal obligations.

We are happy to come to your team to deliver this training, or, alternatively, your team (of between 6 and 10 people) can come to our offices in Galashiels. Please contact us to book a slot.

There are a number of duties in the Act, which place legal responsibilities with Health and the Local Authority:

Duty	Further information
Offer an Adult Carer Support Plan/Young carer statement to every carer - irrespective of whether the eligibility criteria is met or not.	It must be noted that an ACSP has been offered, even if not accepted by the carer.
Prepare an Adult Carer Support Plan/Young carer statement	The ACSP is carried out by the Borders Carers Centre and will highlight any support that should be provided to an adult carer to meet their needs.
Set local eligibility criteria - a framework to identify whether a carer should receive support from SBC and NHS Borders to meet their identified needs.	This has been agreed. See here for more information.
To provide support	Carers who are not eligible for SDS (self-directed support) will still receive help and support and can still access services such as information and advice from SBC, NHS Borders and the Borders Carers Centre.
Involve carers in carer services	SBC and NHS Borders must consult with carers about shaping services that impact on their caring role. NHS Borders have a duty to involve carers in hospital discharge planning, ensuring that, before a cared-for person is discharged from hospital, carers are involved in the process.
Prepare a short breaks statement	In partnership with carers, Social Work and the Borders Carers Centre. Available to download here
Prepare a local carer strategy	Developed in partnership with carers, Social Work, NHS Borders and the Borders Carers Centre. Updates can be seen here.
Ensure establishment/maintenance of an information/advice service.	The Borders Carers Centre delivers an advice and information service on behalf of SBC and NHS Borders. The service provides information, support and advice about carers rights, education and training and is commissioned to carry out Carers Support Plans.