Dementia doesn't just affect the person with the illness - it affects the people most involved in their day-to-day care and support. Whether you are a partner, spouse, son, daughter, grandchild, or friend, your role as a carer brings challenges and changes in your relationship. You don't have to do it alone - there is help and support for you, as well as the person you care for.

Your rights

The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 outlines some new and important rights which aim to increase support for both adult and young carers to enable you to continue to care, if they wish to do so, in better health and to have a life alongside caring.

Some of the key rights contained within the act include:

  • Adult carers have the right to an Adult Carer Support Plan
  • Young carers have the right to a Young Carer Statement
  • Carers have the right to support to meet any ‘eligible needs’
  • Carers have the right to be involved in carer services
  • Carers have the right to be involved in hospital discharges of the person they care for.

As required under the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 Scottish Ministers have prepared the Carers’ Charter which summaries the key provisions within the Act.

If you would like to discuss the rights you are entitled to as a carer, or any aspect of your caring role, call our Freephone 24 hour Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000 for advice, information and support.

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