They live their lives in the service of others and face unimaginable stress and hardship often for little or no financial reward.
Loved ones, friends and strangers all benefit from their help and support but new figures suggest more than two-thirds of carers will not get a holiday this year.
Now, Dundee Carers Centre has pledged action on the issue. It wants to help carers take a break from the rigours of their role through its Short Breaks Service.
“Supporting carers to have a break from their caring role has never been so important,” said Alastair Smeaton, team manager at the Dundee Carers Centre.
“Those who apply to our service for support tell us the most amazing stories, often caring for two or even three generations within the family. We are now approaching the 100th person we have supported this year alone, to have a creative break from caring, which sustains them in their caring role.”
National statistics released this week show 68% of carers will not get a holiday this year.
Mr Smeaton said this is unacceptable and urged those who feel they are unable to take a break to get in touch with the Dundee Carers Centre.
He said: “This year, to cope with demand, we are launching our new ‘one-stop shop’ for carers, where our expert team can help carers identify what kind of break will meet their own needs.
“Our experience to date is that carers themselves are in the best position to work this out, and thanks to our funders and supporters, we aim to help carers to continue in their critically important and often under-valued role.”
Many breaks can be organised through Shared Care Scotland, a national charity which exists to improve the quality, choice and availability of short break provision across Scotland for the benefit of carers and the people they care for.
For more information on how Dundee Carers Centre can help arrange a holiday, contact the centre on 01382 200422 or visit its website at dundeecarerscentre.org.uk.