Following a competitive tendering process, Carers of East Lothian have been awarded a contract to provide an advice, information and support service for unpaid carers living in East Lothian.
Through the Carers Act (Scotland) 2016, local authorities have a duty to provide an information, support and advice service for people caring for others within their county borders. This service is commissioned by ELHSCP utilising funds provided from the Scottish Government.
Local charitable organisation Carers of East Lothian are the current provider of this service, having been awarded the previous contract in 2021 and were once again successful in securing the contract, this time for a period of up to six years, to 2031.
Fiona Wilson, Chief Officer of ELHSCP comments, “Unpaid carers provide vital, unwavering support to family / friends that reaches beyond statutory health and social care services. For many individuals, carers are a lifeline to assist them in daily activities. It’s therefore essential that carers themselves feel supported, and can access information, advice and respite services to make their caring responsibilities easier.
“We are equally pleased that the contract has been awarded to an established, locally based organisation who has already built strong relationships with East Lothian carers. Carers of East Lothian have been a great partner to work with, and we are delighted to be affirming this ongoing partnership for the next six years.”
Jess Wade, Chief Executive of Carer of East Lothian commented, “We are absolutely thrilled Carers of East Lothian have been awarded the contract to deliver carer support locally. The extended contract length provides us with greater stability and an opportunity to renew, develop, and extend our strategy to deliver excellent support to unpaid carers in East Lothian. We very much look forward to engaging with our local carers to ensure we collaboratively shape the future of the service and continue to effectively meet the needs of East Lothian carers.”
Councillor Shamin Akhtar, spokesperson for Health and Social Care adds, “I’m delighted that an East Lothian based provider has been awarded this contract to support carers across the county. Having local knowledge, network links, activity partners and an accessible ‘front door’ is one of Carers of East Lothian’s true strengths, which is often referenced in carer testimonials. It makes a big difference to know that when reaching out, and asking for help, you will be welcomed by local, caring, understanding individuals, who not only understand your situation, but can immediately provide the advice, information and support you need.”
Many people who care for a friend or family member don’t identify as ‘carers’, they may see themselves as a partner, parent or friend just doing what they can or what is expected to support someone close to them. However, caring, especially when the role becomes more intensive, can have a huge impact on the life of the carer, their general health and well-being, their finances, their relationships and caring can increase social isolation.
Identifying as a carer can help a person access help and support to make their caring role more sustainable and to live a life of their own alongside caring. If you have caring responsibilities and would like to find out what support is available locally visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk/support-for-carers or contact Carers of East Lothian www.coel.org.uk or via 0131 665 0135.