Post referendum: what will it mean for carers?

As you can imagine this hasn’t been the easiest blog to write. I thought about talking about new powers but, as there is an ever-changing picture of what further devolution might or might not be, there is too much we don’t know. However, what is certain is that carers must be involved and consulted. We saw carers being active on both sides of the debate, sharing their experiences and their hopes and fears with politicians, other groups, the media and of course fellow voters. We must build on this and it is incumbent on governments on both sides of the border, and of course organisations who work with carers, to make this happen.

what is certain is that carers must be involved and consulted

But even though there is uncertainty, there are things we do know. The Scottish Government will legislate for a Carers Bill. Health and social care for adults will be integrated and self-directed support will continue to roll out. While all of these aim to support carers and people better, they also bring with them challenges, particularly in a time of shrinking finances. Carers will pay testament to this. The contribution of carers is vital to Scotland and we must come together and do our utmost nationally, locally and personally to make existing and new powers work for carers.