The course will enable carers to reflect on their caring journey and identify the skills and abilities they have gained and continue to gain in their caring role.

The course features the stories and experiences of a range of carers from very diverse backgrounds and caring circumstances, who share their lives in text and on film. Users have the option of completing a series of quizzes to gain a digital badge marking their achievement in completing the course.

Lesley, who has already completed a reflection course, tells us how the process of reflection has helped to boost her confidence:

''I think you definitely lose confidence if you have to give up a career, for whatever reason. You lose your sense of identity and worth. Being a carer can be isolating too. Not working also has a huge impact financially. As time goes on, your self-esteem can erode and you can start to feel that there are no opportunities available…

Reflection helps you realise your potential, which can get lost in your caring role.''

Caring Counts is for carers of any age and at any stage in their life or caring role and it is flexible as it can be on or off-line.

As well as helping carers recognise and value their skills and experiences and suggest opportunities for learning and other ideas for personal development, the course includes detailed information about career planning for those thinking about employment, or those thinking about returning to work and/or study that they may have had to put on hold.

For further details please contact Kirsten Harcus or visit: http://www.open.ac.uk/scotland/study/carers