National Carer Organisations have previously raised concerns about the financial implications of the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 and the level of funding that is likely to accompany it.

Here  is a report from National Carer Organisations which was sent to members of the Health and Sport Committee last week, raising concerns about funding in relation to the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 which will commence on the 1st of April 2018.

Funding for the Carers Act has been included in the Scottish Government Draft Budget for 2018/19 which can be downloaded here   

The relevant paragraphs are:

In 2018-19 we will provide an additional £66 million to bring the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 into force, to continue to support the delivery of the Living Wage for adult social care workers, and to increase payments for free personal and nursing care. (P10)

The Scottish Government also recognises the contribution that unpaid carers make to our public services and communities. That is why we will support the implementation of the Carers (Scotland Act) 2016 from 1 April 2016, with investment of £19.4 million in Health and Social Care Partnerships. This will enable carers to continue caring if they so wish, and to have a life outside caring.(P18)

National Carer Organisations highlight in their paper that the £19.4 million promised in the draft budget to fund the implementation of the Carers Act falls far short of covering the anticipated costs.

National Carer Organisations will be meeting with MSPs early in the New Year to discuss their concerns.