Are you a carer?

If you care for someone who relies on your support, you have rights as a carer. This page explains the help you can get in Scotland and where to go for support.

Your main rights as a carer

If you are an unpaid carer, you have the right to:

• get clear information and advice about caring and local support
• have your own needs listened to and taken seriously
• get support if caring affects your health, wellbeing, work or everyday life
• be involved in discussions about hospital discharge for the person you care for
• adult carers have the right to an Adult Carer Support Plan, and young carers have the right to a Young Carer Statement

Breaks from caring

You have the right to information about breaks from caring, sometimes called respite. A break can give you time to rest, and support may be provided for the person you care for, so you can take time away.

A new legal right to a break for unpaid carers is being introduced in Scotland. We will share more details once national guidance is confirmed.

Your rights at work

If you work and care for someone, you have rights at work, including:

• The Carer’s Leave Act 2023 gives carers the right to unpaid carer’s leave
• The Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023 strengthens the right to request flexible working
• Carer Positive supports employers to create carer‑friendly workplaces

Protection from unfair treatment

The Equality Act 2010 can protect carers from unfair treatment or harassment because of their caring role.

Find out more or get help

• The Scottish Government has published a Carers Charter to help carers understand their rights under the act.

If you would like some help, information or advice, you can get in touch with us or Lanarkshire Carers to talk about what support might be right for you.