Graham Simpson MSP visited Lanarkshire Carers Centre in Airdrie to see first-hand the work the charity undertakes to support vulnerable members of the local community.
Lanarkshire Carers Centre is a resource for carers across Lanarkshire to access information and offers a range of direct support services. The centre is based in Hamilton, with a second base in Airdrie, and is complimented by carer support workers across Lanarkshire.
Graham Simpson said: “I was delighted to visit the Lanarkshire Carers Centre in Airdrie to see the work they undertake throughout Lanarkshire. Their hub style model supports 9,000 carers throughout North and South Lanarkshire.
“They provide individual support to help carers manage and continue their caring duties. Carers can access breaks from their caring role and services are provided to ensure there is preventative and emotional support available to carers. They also provide a Caretalk service which provides a weekly telephone call to carers. This work provides a lifeline for carers who struggle physically and mentally with the challenges that they face.
“I am glad that Scottish Parliament is starting to take this issue seriously. However, studies show that there are around 80,000 known carers throughout North and South Lanarkshire, which suggests tens of thousands of carers have not been identified. We need to provide more support in order that charities similar to Lanarkshire Carers Centre can provide effective and accessible assistance to more carers in the local community.
