More than 2,600 adult and young carers from across Scotland are to benefit from the latest round of funding from the Scottish Government’s Creative Breaks programme.
Nearly £1 million from the programme will support over 60 projects, giving carers and young carers the chance to enjoy a range of activities, including residential weekend stays, daytime breaks, social activities, overnight and therapeutic woodland based activity breaks.
The government claims that more than 190 projects – together supporting over 9,000 adult and young carers – have already benefited from this commitment to develop and provide short breaks.
Public Health Minister, Michael Matheson, says: ‘There are considerable pressures on adult and young carers and it is vital that we support them.
‘The Short Breaks Fund, now in its third year, plays a large part in giving our carers a well deserved short break. Importantly, these breaks allow young carers the chance to socialise and meet other young people in a similar position. I’m pleased that this latest round has now been awarded, which will support a variety of organisations across Scotland. ‘
Don Williamson, Shared Care Scotland, says: ‘We could never underestimate the hugely positive effect on the health and happiness of carers, the people they care for and their families from having a quality break from the demands of their caring routine. We know that all the projects receiving funding in this round will work hard to strengthen this impact by creating more flexible, personalised options so that people can have a break that meets their needs.’
Jo Jack, Support Worker, Voluntary Action Shetland, Remote and rural adults cares, (Time to Live Fund) says: ‘VAS and the Carers Link Group are delighted that Shetland has again been awarded some funding. This funding will enable us to continue to offer carers `away day’ short breaks accessing alternative therapies, trips to the cinema as well as short overnight breaks for carers and the cared for at an adapted holiday chalet.’
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