Carer centres

Carer centres are independent charities that offer practical support, advice and information for you as carer in your local area either by phone, drop-in or outreach surgeries.

What help can I get at a carer centre?

What can the carer centre do for you? Video transcript (PDF)

Carer centres can provide you with:

information and advice on things like benefits, respite and support services, advocacy, support under the Carers Act, aids and adaptions
emotional support - you can talk with trained staff, volunteers and other carers who understand your situation
community consultation by giving carers a unified voice to have an impact on local, regional and national decision-making
activities for yourself including time out from caring, breaks, relaxation therapies, and the opportunity to enjoy your own social life

Your local carer centre may also provide training on subjects like:

continence care
finding your way around the care system
protecting yourself from harm, stress or depression
finding time and space for yourself
dealing with challenging behaviour
planning for the future
financial planning

Find a carer centre

Your GP, district nurse, health visitor or social worker can put you in touch with a carer centre. You don't need to be referred – you can just drop in during opening hours.

Carer centres across Scotland include:

Aberdeen City:

Aberdeenshire - Quarriers Aberdeenshire Carer Support Service

Angus - Angus Carers Centre

Argyll and Bute:

Borders

Clackmannanshire - Central Carers Centre

Dumfries and Galloway - Dumfries and Galloway Carers Centre

Dundee - Dundee Carers Centre

East Ayrshire - East Ayrshire Carers Centre

East Dunbartonshire - Carers Link

East Lothian: