Carers Strategy
North Ayrshire Council · 11 December 2025
Back to Integration Joint Board — 11 December 2025 and its agenda
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Integration Joint Board 11th December 2025 Subject : Unpaid Carers Strategy & Delivery Plan Purpose : • Awareness of the Unpaid Carers Strategy and Delivery Plan Recommendation : • Endorse ‘Together We Care’ Carers Strategy 2026-2029 Direction Required to Council, Health Board or Both (where Directions are required please complete Directions Template) Direction to :- 1. No Direction Required X 2. North Ayrshire Council 3. NHS Ayrshire & Arran 4. North Ayrshire Council and NHS Ayrshire & Arran Glossary of Terms Please use this box to ensure that all acronyms etc are set out in full. All acronyms must be set out in full the first time they appear in a paper with the acronym following in brackets. Some examples have been listed below. NHS AA NHS Ayrshire and Arran HSCP Health and Social Care Partnership CGNA Carers Gateway North Ayrshire NACE North Ayrshire Council Education Service ACSP Adult Carer Support Plan YCS Young Carers Statement TTL Time to Live IJB Integrated Joint Board EPiC Equal Partners in Care SWGB Social Work Governance Board PSMT Partnership Senior Management Team 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1.1 This update brings forth progress of a 3-year Carer Strategy: ‘Together We Care’ 2026 – 2029 in conjunction with a delivery plan and progress report on Carers Strategy: ‘Building Caring Communities’ 2023-25. 1.2 The paper highlights four pillars to be taken forward as a strategic partnership with our partner Carers Gateway North Ayrshire (CGNA), Unity. Both the strategy and delivery plan detail the importance of supporting carers to sustain their caring roles and look after their own health and wellbeing, resource and crucially how we will continue to expand reach and improve carer identification, information, assessment and support.
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Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) aspires to involve more carers and key partners in collaborative decision making on services for carers and the people they care for. 1.3 Ultimately progress ensures HSCP continues with the implementation of the Carer (Scotland) Act 2016 and the statutory responsibilities therein. 2. BACKGROUND 2.1 Duties under the Carer’s (Scotland) Act 2016 came into force in April 2018. The Act sets out several responsibilities including the development and publishing of a local carer strategy. HSCP met our duties under local carer strategies with our interim Carers Strategy: Building Caring Communities 2023-2025. The intent was to use the interim strategy period to work with CGNA, our carers and the broader sector to engage in a medium-term strategy to be ready to cover the period 2026 – 2029. The strategy must cover the following areas to meet the statutory definition of a carer strategy, at least: 1. Plans for identifying relevant carers and obtaining information about the care they provide to cared-for persons in North Ayrshire. 2. An assessment of the demand for support to relevant carers. 3. Support available to relevant carers in North Ayrshire. 4. An assessment of unmet need for carers. 5. Plans for supporting carers. 6. Plans for putting arrangements in place for the provision of care to the cared- for person in emergencies. 7. As assessment of the extent to which plans in place may reduce any impact of caring on carers’ health & wellbeing. 8. Intended timescales for preparing adult carer support plans and young carer statements. 9. Information relating to the particular needs and circumstances of young carers. Contextually, the carer population is just over 17,000 people in North Ayrshire according to the Scottish Census Priority 1: Carers are actively sought and identified. Progress to date: 1,888 (1,358 adults & 530 young carers) carers were known and registered with CGNA at the last count on 31st October 2025. This includes 921 individuals newly identified and registered carers since June 2023. Predominantly increased referrals for carer registration have come from self-referral, Social Work Teams, Friends and
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family and North Ayrshire Council Education (NACE). To support growth, CGNA has expanded its staffing complement from 4.5 to 17 staff members. The strategic deployment of community-based support staff within local communities and educational settings has significantly strengthened carer identification efforts across all six localities: Irvine, Kilwinning, Three Towns, North Coast & Isle of Cumbrae, Garnock Valley, and the Isle of Arran. Specialist roles have been introduced to CGNA including, Marketing Officer, Engagement Officer, Administration & Evaluation Officer, Short Breaks Officer and Wellbeing & Activities Officer. In partnership with English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), MECOPP, and support via the Coalition of Carers in Scotland Supporting Ethnically Diverse Carers group, the identification and engagement of hidden carers across North Ayrshire have significantly been strengthened. This includes increased outreach to carers from ethnic minority backgrounds and gypsy/traveller community groups that have historically faced barriers in identifying as carers and accessing support. Recording and reporting processes have been strengthened through the CGNA’s recording system Charity Log, along with a data cleansing exercise which ensures data is now accurate and relevant. Priority 2: Carers are informed, have increased confidence in their caring role and feel supported. Progress to date: A new Carer Information Pack, co-produced with carers, has been developed to provide relevant support and guidance in one accessible resource. This pack reflects the lived experiences of carers and ensures that the information is practical, clear, and meaningful. To further improve accessibility, CGNA information leaflets are now available in multiple formats and languages, including Arabic, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, Kurdish Sorani, and Pashto/Dari supporting carers from diverse backgrounds to access the information and help they need. Social media continues to be a powerful tool for information and engagement, particularly Facebook, with CGNA page now having 1,612 followers, the majority of whom are women aged 35 to 54 years old. This platform has proven highly effective in reaching carers with timely updates, resources, and opportunities for connection. The launch of CGNA new website alongside the digital self-help portal has significantly enhanced digital accessibility. These digital platforms offer carers 24/7 access to information, personalised support planning, and a centralised hub for resources, empowering carers to take control of their support journey in a way that suits their needs.
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The HSCP Carers Team In collaboration with CGNA, have worked with professionals across multiple services have developed a deeper understanding of caring roles and their impacts, enabling earlier identification of carers and more effective signposting to appropriate support. Priority 3: Carers are offered and supported to prepare an Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carer Statement Progress to date: Until now carers support plans were only available through NACE/ HSCP services. CGNA now offer all carer coming through their service a support plan. Since early 2025 CGNA now complete plans which give alternative routes for young and adult carers to flexibly be offered or request a carer conversation and access to support. HSCP has delegated equal responsibility to NACE for young carer identification and offers of support. Across our primary and secondary schools 549 young carers under 18 years old were identified on Seemis in October 2025. These figures do not account for anyone living out with the local authority area but caring for someone who resides in our North Ayrshire communities. By way of assessment leading to support, for the reporting years 2023/ 2025, HSCP services staff offered 937 Adult Carer Support Plans (ACSP) with 191 accepted. HSCP Carers Team, Carers Support Officer also received 226 referrals for ACSP reporting years 2023/ 2025 via HSCP Service Access, CGNA and Self-referrals from carers with 163 following on to completion. NACE staff report 439 Young Carer Statements (YCS) offered with 358 accepted and completed in the year 2024/ 2025. Over 2.5 times more than in 2022/ 2023. From the young carer statements, it is noted 30% required a break away from their caring role, 51% required information or advice around their caring role or for their own health and wellbeing, 35% needed emotional support meaning school staff being aware of caring roles, their anxieties and having someone to talk to. 24% requested practical support with homework, schoolwork or a place to study. Priority 4: Promoting variety in breaks from caring. Progress to date: In February 2025, we published our updated Short Breaks Services Statement, outlining how carers can access a break from caring and what that might look like both locally and further afield. Between 2023 and 2025, the HSCP provided an additional £70,000 in one-off direct funding to support carers who completed an ACSP or YCS. This funding enabled carers to:
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• take a much-needed break from their caring role. • access life opportunities that improved their overall quality of life • access KA Leisure memberships to provide health and wellbeing opportunities. This increase in funding reflects a strong and ongoing commitment to supporting carers’ health and wellbeing, ensuring more carers can benefit from the help they need at critical moments in their caring journey. Through CGNA and Shared Care Scotland’s Time to Live (TTL) funding, carers now have more opportunities to enjoy life outside of their caring role. These breaks have been vital in sustaining carers’ health and wellbeing and preventing burnout. TTL funding increased from £70,594 2024/ 2025 to £128,959 2025/ 2026 offering more carers the opportunity to benefit from a break from caring. CGNA have delivered variety of seasonal activities over the last two years, including residential trips for young carers to the Honey Pot and the Young Carers Annual Festival. Notably, 52 families attended a local pantomime, benefiting 203 individuals with a joyful break from caring. Adult Carers support groups, and one to one session’s are hosted across all six localities, offering carers a safe and supportive space to share experiences, access peer and professional support, and take a break from their caring role. Priority 5: Carers feel involved as equal partners in care design/ delivery. Progress to date: To strengthen the carer voice and influence, two new platforms were established: • Adult Carers Champions Board (February 2025) • Young Carers Champions Board (July 2025) These boards empower carers to shape decisions and services that impact their lives and those they care for, ensuring their experiences are heard and reflected in service design and delivery. Strategic representation is embedded at the highest level, with two Carer Representatives sitting on the Integrated Joint Board (IJB), which oversees the planning and delivery of health and social care services. Their presence ensures carers’ perspectives are considered in decisions that affect local carers and communities, aligning with national outcomes. We continue to invest in meaningful engagement. CGNA Carers Conference, first held during Carers Week 2024 at Riverside, Irvine and again in 2025 at Oscars, Saltcoats, brought together over 200 young and adult carers and professionals.
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These events combined practical workshops and talks with relaxation opportunities, acknowledging both the emotional and practical needs of carers. In partnership with our Mental Health Engagement Officer and clinical teams at Woodland View, we explored carers’ experiences within acute inpatient mental health and addiction settings. The 2024 Carers Survey provided valuable insights into the lived experiences of carers supporting someone with mental ill health. These findings will inform future service redesign and ongoing engagement across NHS Ayrshire and Arran. In response to carer feedback, and in partnership with CGNA and VoiceAbility, we launched the Pan Ayrshire Mental Health Carers Forum. Meeting monthly across community and hospital settings, these sessions offer: • Information and updates • Peer support • Opportunities for carers to be actively involved in service design. This forum strengthens the voice of carers in shaping mental health services and ensures their experiences are central to future improvements. Responding to carer feedback, we now offer monthly Moving and Handling Information Sessions. These three-hour sessions provide carers with hands-on guidance on equipment and techniques such as profiling beds, hoists, slings, and slide sheets, making caring tasks safer and more manageable. We also worked in partnership with CGNA and NACE Services to co-deliver consultation sessions across schools with young people and partners. These sessions shaped the updated YCS, launched in 2025, ensuring it reflected young carers’ voices and needs. Priority 6: Strong partnership working/ engagement. CGNA has embedded a wide range of community-based support for both adult and young carers. A summary of what's available across North Ayrshire can be found on CGNA website. The introduction of the Adult and Young Carers Champions Boards builds on this foundation, enhancing partnership working and ensuring carers are central to shaping services and decisions. In 2024, 175 carers responded to a survey exploring health and wellbeing opportunities across all six localities. Key findings included: • 42% of carers identified cost as a barrier to accessing local health and leisure services.
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In response, we partnered with KA Leisure to offer discounts via the Carers Appreciation Card and secured annual memberships at reduced rates through completion of an ACSP or YCS. We continued to engage with carers through surveys, face-to-face conversations, regular feedback from carer groups, and post-event evaluations (e.g. Roadshows and Carers Conference). This helps us understand what is working well, what needs improvement, and how carers prefer to engage. Recent feedback revealed: • 16% of carers prefer online engagement. • 40% would like access to services in the evening or at weekends. Our collaboration with local GP surgeries has led to increased visibility of carer support, with practices now displaying CGNA posters or hosting carer-specific displays. In 2024, CGNA began reviewing therapies provision for carers, moving away from a centralised model to better align with their locality-based approach. A survey with over 150 responses. Based on feedback CGNA engaged 17 local therapy providers, with 28 more expressing interest. They are now developing robust referral processes to ensure carers can access support in a way that suits their individual needs. Additionally, in partnership with local counsellors, CGNA supported ten carers in 2024 to 2025 to access one-to-one Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Referrals are triaged by the counsellor, who then offers up to ten tailored 60-minute sessions Priority 7: Improved identification, information and support for Young Carers with a focus on transition periods through to adulthood. Progress to date: Young Carers information and awareness sessions have been delivered across schools, youth groups and at community events, helping to normalise conversations about caring and reduce stigma. We have worked closely with third sector and voluntary partners to raise awareness and strengthen identification efforts across all six localities in North Ayrshire. These partnerships continue to play a vital role in reaching young carers who may not be visible through traditional or education services. In October 2024, we launched the Young Carers Education Information Pack, providing NACE staff with clear guidance on how to identify, support and work with young carers. This resource supports a consistent and informed approach across all North Ayrshire schools. In January 2025, North Ayrshire Council and CGNA signed the Young Carers Covenant, committing to outcomes shaped by young people. Twelve schools have
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already joined, with each school nominating a Young Carers Champion supported by CGNA Young Carer staff, embedding young carer awareness and tailored support into school culture. We are encouraging and supporting schools to participate in the Young Carers in Schools Challenge. These initiatives promote a whole-school approach to identifying and supporting young carers, embedding carer awareness into school culture. In March 2025, CGNA digital self-help portal for young carers was launched. The platform offers 24/7 access to a wide range of resources, information, and support. This digital tool enhances accessibility and ensures young carers can find help whenever they need it and an improved version was launched in August 2025. A structured transition pathway has been developed to support young carers as they move through key stages of life, particularly from age 16 onwards. Helping young carers to manage and prepare for changes in their caring role as they approach adulthood. The pathway ensures that changes in life circumstances such as education, employment, home life or caring roles trigger tailored information, advice and support. Carer identification, information, activities and support is now closer to carers homes, embedded in their own communities. 3. PROPOSALS 3.1 Carer Strategy ‘Together We Care’ is intended to help deliver consistency of message and approach for all carers. It advises carers of their rights, sets out plans to identify carers, routes for assessment and support, and information about local and national services. The strategy advises carers, those they care for, professional staff and partner agencies of how we currently identify and support carers, and what this will look and feel like in the future through CGNA’s expanded service. We are continuing with a programme of review, change and growth as to how we work with and involve carers in and around our communities and in service design to shape and implement better carer services and services for the individual they support. The aim is that all North Ayrshire carers are identified, supported and valued and are afforded an opportunity to live, work, thrive and stay connected to their communities enjoying a life alongside caring, where they choose to continue to care. It is also our ambition that all unpaid carers have their voices heard and ideas considered in the design and delivery of information and support services provided
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across HSCP through a more collaborative/ network model of Champion Boards led by CGNA, Carers Champion and IJB Carer Representatives. We understand that often caring roles are demanding and complex and we hope the strategy offers support and guidance to carers when they need it most. In the development of the strategy, four pillars have been identified for growing young and adult carer services. HSCP will work closely with North Ayrshire carers, CGNA and other key partners to implement and improve identification, information, involvement and support options through the following four pillars: • Pillar 1 Identify – “Carers will be identified at the earliest opportunity”. • Pillar 2 Inform - “Carers will be provided with the right information at the right time”. • Pillar 3 Involve - “Carers and the individuals they support work together with professionals and services, rather than having decisions made for them”. • Pillar 4 Support - “Carers are supported to lead a healthy and fulfilling life”. The strategy and pillars have been developed over the past year with carers, CGNA and partners and have been endorsed by our Carers Champion Board on 2nd September 2025. It has also been endorsed through Social Work Governance Board (SWGB) (31st October) and Partnership Senior Management Team (PSMT) (20th November). Key outcomes for development across all four pillars Pillar 1 Identify – We are committed to embedding a proactive, consistent approach to early identification of carers across all services by working in partnership with health, social care, education, council, and community organisations. This includes equipping primary care professionals with tools via platforms like CGNA digital self- help portal, investing in workforce capacity through resources such as Equal Partners in Care (EPiC), and expanding roles like Carers Support Workers in community hospitals to support carers during discharge. We will adopt outreach strategies to engage underrepresented communities, collaborate with care homes and supported living settings to address barriers, and use social media and digital campaigns to encourage self-identification, reduce stigma, and promote available support. Pillar 2 Inform – We aim to ensure carers have clear, accurate, and timely information to make informed decisions and access support. This will be achieved by providing personalised resources through CGNA, extended service hours, and key transition support; maintaining accurate digital information across partnership websites and digital self-help portal; promoting carers’ rights under the Carers (Scotland) Act and
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Carers Charter through workshops and targeted materials; partnering with Money Smart for financial advice and benefits support; working with local organisations and trusted spaces to raise awareness and expand peer support opportunities; and addressing digital barriers by skills training, and online resources to ensure equitable access. Pillar 3 Involve – We believe carers should be equal partners in care, actively involved in planning and decision-making while supported to maintain their own wellbeing. This pillar prioritises co-production and person-centred approaches by strengthening carer involvement in service design through Carers Champions Boards, commissioning processes, and feedback mechanisms. We will promote the use of ACSP and YCS, implement inclusive engagement strategies, and provide training and peer support for carer representatives. Additionally, we will work with advocacy services and use digital tools to amplify carers’ voices and ensure they can confidently influence service development. Pillar 4 Support – Caring should not come at the cost of a carer’s health, aspirations, or quality of life. This pillar focuses on creating a culture that values and sustains carers through access to breaks, emotional support, financial advice, and opportunities for personal development. We will achieve this by promoting ACSP and YCS, improving access to emotional wellbeing support and routine health checks, and partnering with businesses to support employment opportunities through initiatives like Carer Positive. Additionally, we will develop respite and day support services, create pathways to address critical caring concerns, and provide future planning toolkits to reduce stress during emergencies, ensuring carers can thrive not just cope. Young carers may have different challenges or support needs compared to adult carers. These Pillars focuses on young carers in North Ayrshire to make sure their needs, rights and experiences are properly understood and supported. Key outcomes for development for young carers across all four pillars Pillar 1 – Identify We aim to identify and support young carers early by expanding training for education, health, and social care staff, and raising awareness through campaigns, events, and the CGNA digital self-help portal. Resources will be co-developed with young carers for use in youth and community settings, while schools and partners will be encouraged to sign the Young Carers Covenant and take part in the Young Carers Challenge Scotland. We will strengthen safe disclosure pathways through Carers Champions in schools and work with health professionals to identify young carers during routine appointments, ensuring timely and tailored support.
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Pillar 2 – Inform We aim to ensure young carers have access to clear, age-appropriate information tailored to their needs. This includes co-developing a Young Carers Information Pack in plain language, offering feedback opportunities, and providing learning sessions for staff to share information at key transition points. We will create resources for families, involve young carers in shaping how information is shared across multiple formats including the CGNA portal and develop tools to explain the roles of professionals supporting them. Additionally, we will work with schools, colleges, universities, and employers to establish pathways that identify young carers early and provide the right information to help them succeed. Pillar 3 – Involve We aim to empower young carers as confident, informed partners in decisions affecting their lives. This includes developing training and awareness opportunities to build self-advocacy skills, increasing uptake of YCS to help them set goals, and championing peer-led initiatives like the Young Carers Champions Board and National Young Carers Festival to amplify diverse voices. We will co-design pathways for participation in mental health and wellbeing decisions and create resources and campaigns shaped by young carers lived experience to drive meaningful change. Pillar 4 – Support We aim to ensure young carers can access the right support and opportunities to maintain their wellbeing and thrive. This includes partnering with schools, youth, and community groups to provide social activities and local support, creating pathways for timely specialist help, and expanding access to one-to-one support, peer groups, and residential breaks. We will raise awareness of financial support options such as the Young Carers Grant and promote short breaks through CGNA and community resources. Additionally, we will strengthen referral pathways between young carers and adult services, offering tailored transition workshops focused on life skills, education, and employment. HSCP will fine tune this strategy with a proposed launch online in January 2026 and work commencing on design for a printable alternative early 2026. We will move forward with the content, pillars and associated action plan to ensure all carers in North Ayrshire can experience a good quality of life, sustain or improve their wellbeing and realise their goals by accessing information and support closer to home that enables them to continue caring, where they wish to do so. We are aware that the Care Reform (Scotland) Act 2025 will bring changes to timescales for the offer and completion of support plans. We will continue to monitor this and take these changes into account, ensuring the strategy reflects updated national priorities and continues to meet the needs of carers in North Ayrshire.
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As a final point the strategy acknowledges the challenges currently faced across HSCP services and systems, but we also recognise that often means rising pressure for many carers. Carers are paramount to the wealth and sustainability of our communities and the health and social care system. This is why carers needs are of priority across North Ayrshire. 3.2 Anticipated Outcomes The results we hope to achieve through the strategy and delivery plan for carers are: Pillar 1 Identify – “Carers will be identified at the earliest opportunity”. • Improved carer identification in primary care settings. Health professionals are better informed and more confident in identifying and referring carers. • Carers and professionals have easier access to helpful resources and information. Professionals have a better understanding of carers' needs and rights. EPiC becomes a standard part of staff training and development. - Improved identification and support for carers across services. • Stronger partnerships between carers and professionals. Carers receive timely information, advice, and support during transitions. • More carers supported during hospital admission/ discharge and reduced readmissions, delayed discharge and improved outcome for all. • More carers are identified earlier and receive timely support. Outreach becomes more targeted and effective. • Carers feel heard and valued. Professionals are better equipped to recognise and support carers. • Increased awareness and access to support among underrepresented communities. Stronger relationships between services and diverse groups. More carers from minority backgrounds feel recognised and supported. Improved inclusivity in service design and delivery. • More carers in supported living and care settings are identified and supported. Carers receive relevant and accessible information. Reduced isolation and improved wellbeing for carers facing access barriers. Stronger partnerships with supported living partners and care providers. • Greater visibility of carer support services. - Increased engagement from carers and communities. More carers accessing support through digital platforms. Improved messaging based on audience feedback and data. Pillar 2 Inform - “Carers will be provided with the right information at the right time”. • Carers can access support when they need it, including evenings and weekends (supporting working carers). Carers feel better prepared and supported during major life changes. Increased satisfaction and engagement with CGNA services.
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• Audit and update carer-related content on the HSCP website, CGNA website, and self-help portal. Maintain and regularly promote the CGNA digital self- help portal through newsletters, social media, and partner networks. • Professionals are more aware of carers’ rights and responsibilities. Carers feel more informed and empowered. Increased recognition and support for carers in health settings. Consistent messaging about carers’ rights across services. • Carers feel more confident managing finances and accessing benefits. Increased uptake of financial support services. Reduced financial stress among carers. Stronger partnerships between financial support services and carer networks. • Increased visibility of carer support in local communities. Greater understanding of carers’ roles among professionals and the public. Stronger representation of carers in decision-making. More carers accessing support through trusted community spaces. • More carers can access digital support and information. Increased confidence and independence in using online tools. Reduced digital exclusion among carers. Improved access to services and resources for all carers. Pillar 3 Involve - “Carers and the individuals they support work together with professionals and services, rather than having decisions made for them”. • Carers feel heard, valued, and involved in decision-making. Services better reflect the real needs and experiences of carers. Stronger partnerships between carers and professionals. Continuous improvement based on lived experience. • Carers feel valued and included in care processes. Improved communication and planning between carers and professionals. Increased uptake of support plans and statements. Better outcomes for both carers and the people they support. • Increased participation from underrepresented carer groups. Carers feel respected, understood, and included. Services are shaped by a wider range of voices and experiences. Improved equity in access to support and decision-making. • Carer representatives feel confident and well-informed. Increased and meaningful participation in strategic forums. Stronger representation of carer voice in planning and decision-making. Improved outcomes through lived experience input. • More carers actively involved in service design and decision-making. Increased awareness of advocacy and involvement opportunities. Carers feel confident and supported to express their views. • Services better reflect the needs and experiences of carers. Pillar 4 Support - “Carers are supported to lead a healthy and fulfilling life”.
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• More carers access personalised support tailored to their needs. Staff feel confident and equipped to offer and deliver support planning. Improved wellbeing and outcomes for carers. Data driven improvements to service delivery. • Carers feel emotionally supported and less isolated. Increased access to counselling and peer support. Greater awareness and use of emotional wellbeing resources. Services are more sensitive to the impact of trauma and caring responsibilities. • Improved health awareness and early intervention for carers. Increased engagement in wellbeing activities, to reduce isolation and increase health and wellbeing. Greater accessibility and uptake of flexible support services. • Increased employer awareness and engagement. More carers supported to remain in or return to work. Growth in Carer Positive accredited organisations. • Services better aligned with carers’ needs and those they support. Increased access to and uptake of breaks from caring. Enhanced social connection and wellbeing among carers • Earlier intervention in complex or crisis situations. More responsive and resilient support systems. Data-informed service improvements aligned with carers’ needs. • Toolkit reflects real needs and experiences of carers across North Ayrshire. Increased awareness and confidence in accessing support. Wider reach for carers through CGNA and community networks. 3.3 Measuring Impact We will demonstrate what good carer support looks like through governance and performance monitoring of the strategy, delivery plan and above anticipated outcomes. CGNA and its associated developments remain accountable to the IJB and North Ayrshire Council. Scheduled updates will be tabled through PSMT for continued oversight and direction with escalation to SWGB where required. Carer Champions Boards will provide a robust measure of impact/ success of the strategy. Developments will be monitored through the voices, wisdom and experiences of our carers. A Strategic Planning Group will commence early January 2026 to support the strategy and delivery plan including representatives from HSCP, CGNA, NACE, carers and other relevant stakeholders and partners. CGNA also work with Evaluation Support Scotland who support organisations to measure, monitor and report on their impact for improvement. The role of Administration & Evaluation Officer in CGNA will also enhance the services ability to capture better, quality data to interrogate for service design and improvement. 4. IMPLICATIONS 4.1 Financial None 4.2 Human Resources
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None 4.3 Legal North Ayrshire Council and NHS Ayrshire & Arran must meet their duties under the Carers (Waiving of Charges for Support) 2014 Regulations, Carers (Scotland) Act 2016, Terminal Illness Regulations (July 2021) and Carer Reform (Scotland) Act 2025. This legislation should be held in the same regard as any other directive pertaining to professional assessment of need and provision of support. 4.4 Equality/Socio-Economic Under the Fairer Scotland agenda, it is commonly noted that unpaid care places added strain on multiple areas of a person’s life including personal health relationships & social opportunities, finances, appropriate housing, ability to retain education or employment. It is also known that carers predominantly are female and in the mid – older stages of life. The strategy and delivery plans contained in the report bring together four pillars, new approaches and better routes for information and support to ensure carers are equally recognised, informed and supported whilst trying to reduce any negative impacts caring may have on people’s lives. 4.5 Risk The integrated joint board should note the risks if this work does not continue to be a key priority. • Carers will not be aware of their rights or how to access information and support at the right time on their caring journey. • More carers will not be identified, informed and supported resulting in carer roles/ relationship breakdown and carers experiencing further impact on their own physical and emotional wellbeing. • Carers and HSCP services will be further overwhelmed and experience increasing pressure, leading the carer into crisis and resulting in higher demand and cost for health and social care services. • Statutory carer duties will not be met. • Fiscally conditions are not going to improve immediately for citizens, carers, local government or the care sector. Mobilising resources to mitigate some of the pressure’s carers are experiencing is the right thing to do. (Moderate) 4.6 Community Wealth Building None 4.7 Key Priorities The carers strategy and delivery plan outlined in this report will assist the IJB to deliver the following Strategic Objectives from its Strategic Plan to: • Continue to provide support in the community for unpaid carers, prioritising identifying people providing care in the community and ensuring their health and care needs are supported.
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• Continue working closely in partnership with the local Third and Community sectors, looking for opportunities to support peer-support groups, family and parental support. • Consider current and future options to enable independent living in the community • Review information and links available on the HSCP website, ensuring information is up to date and accessible, including language availability and alternative formats. • Review available tools and resources available to the community outside of services to ensure people have access to information and support if they are not at a stage of requiring clinical support. • Ensure that lived experience is used in the design and delivery of services and people are supported to participate in decision making. • Ensure people can participate in their own care plans and future planning to improve services. 5. CONSULTATION The contents of this report reflect the collaboration between HSCP, CGNA, Carers Champion Board and Groups and the wider carer population. Lead: Scott Hunter, Chief Social Worker Prepared by – Kerryanne Owens, Carers Development Officer – Professional Standards Kerryowen@north-ayrshire.gov.uk • 3 attachments
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North Ayrshire Carer Strategy Together We Care 2026 to 2029
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2 Contents Page Forewords ............................................................................................................................................................................................3 Introduction ..........................................................................................................................................................................................5 North Ayrshire’s Vision – A Promise to Identify, Inform, Involve and Support .......................................................................................6 What do we mean by carer ..................................................................................................................................................................7 Caring roles ..........................................................................................................................................................................................7 The Carers Landscape in North Ayrshire .............................................................................................................................................8 National Policy ................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Local Policy ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 14 What we have achieved 2023-2025 ................................................................................................................................................... 16 A Promise to Identify, Inform, Involve and Support ............................................................................................................................. 17 North Ayrshire Young Carers .............................................................................................................................................................. 22 Why should we identify, inform, involve, and support young carers: .................................................................................................. 28 Supporting young carers in transition to adulthood ............................................................................................................................ 33 Support for former carers ................................................................................................................................................................... 34 Monitor and Review............................................................................................................................................................................ 35
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3 Forewords In North Ayrshire, we proudly recognise the vital role unpaid carers play in supporting those who cannot manage without help due to disability, illness, addiction, or mental health challenges. This strategy reflects our shared commitment to carers of all ages and has been shaped by their voices and lived experiences. We are deeply grateful to every carer who contributed their time and insight, and we also acknowledge the invaluable input from Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, colleagues across the Health and Social Care Partnership, Education, North Ayrshire Council, and the third and voluntary sectors. This strategy is a product of true collaboration, setting a clear direction for improving outcomes for carers. Recognising that caring can be both rewarding and challenging, we are committed to early identification, tailored support, and fostering a culture that values and empowers carers. Over the next three years, we will work alongside carers and partners to deliver on these priorities, ensuring carers in North Ayrshire feel recognised, supported, and able to thrive. Together, we can build a community where carers are not only seen but truly involved and supported. Caroline Cameron Director North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership
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4 “I did not set out to be a carer, I just saw someone I love, my mammy, who needed me, and I did what many would do. However, caring takes its toll, and what I need is simple: to be recognised, supported, and treated like I matter too. This strategy gets to the heart of that, it is about making sure carers are not overlooked, that we are part of the decision-making process, that we get the right information and support when we need it. It is not just about supplying services, it is about seeing carers as people with lives, hopes, and challenges of our own.” Paul Smith, Integrated Joint Board Carer Representative
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5 Introduction We recognise carers need time and support to look after their own health and wellbeing, achieve their educational, employment and life ambitions and ensure they stay connected to family, friends, and their communities. This strategy sets out the shared priorities and actions North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, Carers Gateway North Ayrshire and other partners will work towards to help all carers achieve a life alongside their caring role. Based on what carers told us our focus is on early identification, meaningful engagement, and co-designed support. We aim to help carers build skills, improve health and wellbeing, and feel recognised and empowered. By working within communities and evolving services to meet diverse needs, we aim to reduce isolation and promote inclusion for carers. Importantly, we are committed to reaching underrepresented carers and communities ensuring carers in North Ayrshire feel seen, supported, and able to continue in their caring role, if they choose to do so. Who the strategy is for This strategy is designed for anyone who provides care to a family member, friend or neighbour who is living within North Ayrshire. It is intended to serve as a valuable resource for all staff, partners, and third sector organisations, including our strategic partner Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, as well as anyone seeking to understand how we support carers in North Ayrshire. The strategy will inform other North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership strategies and transformation plans, ensuring that the needs and aspirations of carers are met and embedded across all Health and Social Care Partnership services, including those commissioned externally. Including Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, which delivers information, advice, signposting, and support services to carers across North Ayrshire.
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6 North Ayrshire’s Vision – A Promise to Identify, Inform, Involve and Support Through our four pillars to identify, inform, involve, and support, we will ensure that carers are acknowledged, their voices are heard, and they are empowered to flourish both within and beyond their caring roles. In North Ayrshire, our vision is made up of four pillars for unpaid carers: Identify Carers will be recognised at the earliest stages in their caring role and seen for the vital role they play in supporting others, including those who may not see themselves as carers. Inform Carers are made aware of their rights and the support available to them in ways that are accessible, clear, and meaningful. Involve Carers are included in decisions that affect their own lives and the lives of those they care for, with their voices shaping services and policy. Support Carers are empowered to have control over their caring role and supported to lead healthy, fulfilling lives including access to a break from caring, flexible wellness opportunities and emotional support when needed.
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7 What do we mean by carer The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 recognises the importance of identifying and supporting caring roles and defines a carer as “an individual who provides or intends to provide care for another individual”, but not if this is only because of that person’s age (where they are under 18 years old) or if you caring because you have a contract or as voluntary work. In North Ayrshire carers are defined as: Someone who looks after a family member, friend or neighbour who needs support due to illness, disability, mental health issues, substance use issues or just needs extra help and support as they grow older. It is important to acknowledge that not all carers identify themselves. People often see the help and support they offer as a natural extension of those relationships. We recognise that cultural differences, language barriers, and lack of awareness can hinder access to information, support, and services. Identifying carers from LGBTQ+ communities, ethnic backgrounds and the gypsy/traveling community is crucial because these groups often face unique barriers to accessing support and recognition. Caring roles Caring roles vary significantly due to the diverse needs of individuals, the range of support required, and the changing circumstances of those being cared for. By relationship to the cared for person: • Young Carers – children and young people under 18 years old. • Young Adult Carers – adult over 18 years old who is not at school up to age 25.
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8 • Adult Carers – adults over 18 years old who are caring for another adult, often a parent, partner, or friend (Carers (Scotland) Act 2016). • Parent Carers – caring for a child with additional needs or disabilities. • Sibling Carers – brothers or sisters caring for a sibling with support needs. • Spousal/Partner Carers – caring for a husband, wife, or partner. • Sandwich Carers – supporting both children and older relatives simultaneously. Rita cares for her mum who has recently moved to a residential care home. She has Power of Attorney and takes care of mum’s finances, offers emotional support, and ensures mum is still able to access community resources. Rita does all this while balancing work and her own family. For many carers there are positive and rewarding aspects to helping or supporting someone else. Caring however can leave carers needing their own support and help. The Carers Landscape in North Ayrshire This strategy recognises the diversity of carers’ experiences and the need for tailored, locality-based approaches to ensure that all carers regardless of age, background, or caring intensity are identified, valued, and supported. Reviewing our data helps us to build a clearer picture of the local carers landscape in North Ayrshire. It enables us to: • Understand the scale and profile of unpaid carers in our communities. • Identify trends such as the ageing population, rising health concerns, and increasing demand to formal supports. • Predict future needs, allowing us to plan proactively for services that will likely see increased demand. • Ensure resources are targeted effectively, supporting both carers and the people they care for. • Strengthen strategic planning, ensuring our policies and services are responsive, inclusive, and sustainable.
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9 North Ayrshire is made up of six localities: Irvine, Kilwinning, Three Towns, Garnock Valley, North Coast and Cumbrae, and the Isle of Arran. Carers are present in every community, and their contribution is vital to the wellbeing of individuals and families across North Ayrshire. According to Scotland’s Census 2022, there are 17,222 unpaid carers in North Ayrshire, an increase of 23.9% since 2011. This places North Ayrshire as having the fifth highest proportion of carers in Scotland relative to its population. However, the true number is likely higher, as many individuals do not identify themselves as carers. In parallel, the 2022 Census also recorded an 18.5% increase in the number of people in North Ayrshire living with a health condition or disability that limits their daily activities. This rising level of need reinforces the importance of identifying and supporting carers at the earliest opportunity across all communities.
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10 In North Ayrshire, unpaid carers are predominantly women (74%) and of working age (18 to 64 years old), with the highest representation among those aged 50 to 64 years old. This demographic is particularly vulnerable, as many female carers within this age group are likely to be managing their own health conditions while simultaneously providing care to others. Managing personal health issues while caring for someone else can lead to serious physical, emotional, and financial stress for carers. Notably, nearly 60% of all unpaid carers are aged 50 years old and over, showing how caring responsibilities often come at a time when people are dealing with key life transitions such as declining health and retirement planning. In recent years, there has also been a marked increase of 25.5% in the number of men identifying as unpaid carers. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the caring role across genders and reinforces the need for support services to be inclusive, equitable, and responsive to the diverse needs of carers, regardless of age, gender, or background.
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11 Irvine has historically recorded higher numbers of registered carers with Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, which may have been influenced by several factors. Irvine is one of the larger town areas in North Ayrshire and has hosted the Carers Centre for over 20 years and carers often prefer local, familiar networks, making a centralised base seem disconnected from community needs. Carers Gateway North Ayrshire has seen an increase of registered carers across all six localities since 2023. A key development has been the transformation of our strategic partner moving away from a central base in Irvine High Street to embedding support staff in all six localities, making it easier for young and adult carers to access support closer to home. As of 30 September 2025, there were 1,888 carers registered with Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, the diagrams below represent the percentage across each locality with 1,358 being adult carers aged 18 years old and over and 530 young carers.
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13 National Policy Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 • Accessible information and advice for carers. • Offer Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carers Statement. • Adult carers and young carers to be involved in service planning. • Support and involvement of carers at point of hospital discharge. • Development of local adult carer and young carers strategies. • Development of Short Breaks Service Statement. Care Reform (Scotland) Act 2025 • Unpaid carers have a legal right to take breaks from caring. • Local authorities must promote financial and other support for carers. • Section 14 formally recognises carers of people in residential care. Residents can nominate an Essential Care Supporter; someone they can stay in contact with, who can support with decisions about their health and care (known as Anne’s Law). National Carers Strategy (2022) The Strategy is built around five key pillars that aim to support unpaid carers in a holistic and sustainable way. These pillars reflect the lived experiences of carers and are designed to ensure that carers are recognised, supported, and empowered. 1. Living with COVID-19 2. Valuing, recognising, and supporting carers. 3. Health and Social Care Support 4. Social and financial inclusion 5. Young Carers
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14 Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2016 If you are classed as having eligible needs as a carer, your council must provide support to you. Your local council must also consider whether breaks from caring should be part of the support you receive. If you are eligible for support, this should be done in a way that gives you as much choice and control as you would like. Equal Partners in Care (EPiC) EPiC is a learning resource for health and social care staff. It aims to help staff identify carers, improve carer outcomes, and make a positive difference to their lives. Scotland’s Public Service Reform Strategy The Public Service Reform Strategy sets out commitments to change the system of public services to be preventative, to better join up and to be efficient to better deliver for people. It sets out how we will tackle systemic barriers to change. Carers’ Charter The Carers Charter sets out the rights of carers in or under the Carers (Scotland) Act 2016. Local Policy North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) Strategic Plan 2026-2030 The HSCP Strategy notes a growing reliance on unpaid carers, attributing this to an aging population in North Ayrshire, healthcare pressures, and economic conditions. Priorities include community services and a whole person approach, both of which are reflected in the Carers Strategy, ensuring carers are supported to live well, with access to appropriate and effective community services, while respecting and promoting individual needs and differences.
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15 North Ayrshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) Strategy 2025-2028 References the importance of providing support to family members and carers of people who have substance use issues in their strategic plan. Supporting someone who has an issue with alcohol and drugs can have a significant impact on the wider family and the ADP are committed to ensuring support for families and carers is accessible to people in North Ayrshire. Local Housing Strategy Shared priorities include improved mental and physical health and wellbeing, provision of early and effective support, maintaining independent living, reducing loneliness and isolation, adaptable housing, and care and support. This housing strategy aims to make it easier for everyone to get involved, especially groups who are often hard to reach such as unpaid carers. What's Next for Learning Disability Services in North Ayrshire Two of the main themes in this report relate to connecting with people and independence. By ensuring carers are supported to take breaks from their caring responsibilities, our Strategy links to these themes by establishing scenarios where the cared for person can develop their independence and social interaction without the unpaid carer, benefiting both. Customer Connections Strategy North Ayrshire Councils Housing Services ‘Customer Connections Strategy’ aims to make sure all tenants and residents in North Ayrshire have the chance to be informed and take part in decisions, policy changes and service designs that affect their lives.
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16 What we have achieved 2023-2025 Our interim Carers Strategy ‘Building Caring Communities’ was in place 2023 to 2025 and aimed to develop a more effective model for identifying and supporting more carers across North Ayrshire. Through collaboration with carers, Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, and partners we worked to improve access to information, co-develop services, and invested in practical tools that responded to young and adult carers needs. Detailed below are the seven priorities for 2023 to 2025. More information on what has been achieved can be found in our Carers Strategy Progress Report.
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17 A Promise to Identify, Inform, Involve and Support Our Carers Strategy is built around four interconnected pillars shaped through direct consultation with carers that reflect their lived experiences and the values that underpin our approach. These pillars provide a clear framework for action, ensuring that carers are identified and recognised for their caring role, informed of their rights and supported with clear concise information, involved in the planning and design of services that affect them or the individual they care for, and are supported at every stage of their caring journey. Each pillar is rooted in our commitment to early identification and intervention, co-production, and continuous improvement to enable carers to continue in their caring role if able and willing, without compromising their own aspirations or quality of life.
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18 Pillar 1 Identify – “Carers will be identified at the earliest opportunity”. Early identification is critical to ensuring carers receive timely support. We are committed to embedding a consistent and initiative- taking approach across all services, working in partnership with health, social care, education, council, and community organisations. By recognising carers early, we can reduce critical situations and improve outcomes for both carers and the people they support. We will achieve this by: 1. Working with carers, partners and using digital platforms like Carers Gateway digital self-help portal to equip primary care professionals, GP’s, dentists and community nurses with tools and resources to identify carers at the earliest opportunity. 2. Invest in building workforce capacity through learning opportunities like the Equal Partners in Care (EPiC) resource, targeting professionals across health and social care, local authority, primary care, third sector and community services. 3. Expand and promote the Carers Support Worker (health) role in community hospital across North Ayrshire to identify carers, provide tailored carers advice and support them through the hospital discharge process. 4. Adopt outreach approach to identify, engage, and support carers from underrepresented communities, including ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals and individuals from Gypsy/Traveller communities ensuring equitable access to services. 5. Work closely with carers and partners in care homes, supported living for individuals with learning disabilities and sheltered housing to identify carers facing additional barriers to accessing support. 6. Use social media and digital tools to run targeted campaigns that encourage self-identification, reduce stigma, and promote available support and resources. “I did not realise I was a carer because I saw myself just as a daughter and you just do what you need to. People expect you do it, including professionals. At crisis point, I did not know where to turn so I went to the carers service who helped me to find the information and support I needed.”
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19 Pillar 2 Inform - “Carers will be provided with the right information at the right time”. Access to clear, accurate, and timely information empowers carers to make informed decisions and navigate available support. This pillar focuses on improving the visibility and accessibility of information about carers’ rights, entitlements, and services ensuring no carer is left unaware of the help available to them. We will achieve this by: 1. Ensuring carers receive timely, relevant, and personalised information through Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, extended service hours (8am to 8pm, 7 days a week), and tailored resources at key transition points in their caring journey. 2. Providing accurate online digital carer information on North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership website, Carers Gateway’s North Ayrshire website and Carers Gateway North Ayrshire self-help portal. 3. Promoting Carers Rights and entitlements through workshops, training opportunities and targeted materials that raise awareness of their rights under the Carers (Scotland) Act, the Carers Charter and during medical and hospital interactions. 4. Partner with Money Smart and other partners to improve carers access to financial advice, benefits information, and practical support to reduce financial pressures on carers and those they support. 5. Work with local organisations and use trusted spaces like libraries, schools and community spaces to promote carer awareness, deliver support, and expand peer support opportunities including “lunch and learn” sessions and the Carers Champions Boards for both adult and young carers. 6. Identify carers who face digital barriers and provide access to devices, skills training, and online resources to ensure equitable access to information and support. “You get directed to look things up for yourself and you get exhausted trying to navigate around the system. It is worse now that everything is digital and automated. There is a lack of accountability and compassion. You feel like you are part of a business process.” “Rebranding “carers” so they are valued. Most things we found out ourselves. From diagnosis there was no pathway to help. We were just given a load of printouts which was not helpful.”
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20 Pillar 3 Involve - “Carers and the individuals they support work together with professionals and services, rather than having decisions made for them”. We believe carers should be equal partners in care. This means involving them in planning and decision-making, and ensuring they have the tools, training, and flexibility to manage their caring role while maintaining their own wellbeing. Co-production and person- centred approaches are central to this pillar. We will achieve this by: 1. Strengthening carer involvement in service design and decision-making enabling carers to actively shape services through the Carers Champions Boards, commissioning processes, and structured feedback mechanisms. Ensure carers voices influence planning, delivery, and evaluation of services. 2. Support carers to engage in care planning conversations, including during hospital stays and discharge. Promote the use of Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carer Statements to ensure carers are recognised and involved in decisions affecting their own health and wellbeing and the individual they support. 3. Implement an engagement plan that reflects carers diverse circumstances and backgrounds offering accessible, culturally sensitive, and flexible opportunities for involvement beyond traditional formats. 4. Provide training, peer support and timely information to carer representatives involved in forums such as the Integrated Joint Board and Carers Champions Boards, enabling confident and informed participation. 5. Work with North Ayrshire advocacy service and use digital tools such as Carers Gateways self-help portal, social media to amplify carers voices, promote opportunities for involvement and ensure carers are supported to express their views and influence service development. When mum could still make decisions, we made them together and I would go to appointments with her to make sure she would ask the right questions and get the right advice. Once she had dementia and I had Power of Attorney (POA), that opened a whole different scenario. I do not think people realise how much is involved [in POA/guardianship] and it can be difficult to make the right decisions on their behalf.
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21 Pillar 4 Support - “Carers are supported to lead a healthy and fulfilling life”. Caring should not come at the cost of a carer’s own health, aspirations, or quality of life. This pillar is about building a culture that values and sustains carers through access to breaks, emotional support, financial advice, and opportunities for personal development. We aim to create a system that supports carers to thrive, not just cope. We will achieve this by: 1. Promoting and increasing the uptake of Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carer Statements to ensure carers receive personalised tailored support meaningful to them which is aligned with the local carers’ eligibility criteria. 2. Working with partners to create safe spaces for carers to discuss emotional health and wellbeing concerns, access counselling, and emotional support during and after caring roles end. 3. Work with carers and partners to improve access to routine health checks for carers and explore opportunities that help carers to maintain their own health, physical and mental wellbeing. 4. Partner with local businesses and communities to support carers in gaining, maintaining, or returning to employment. Promote the Carer Positive initiative to raise awareness of carers value in the workforce. 5. Develop and improve in partnership with carers and the individuals they support, day support and respite services. Identify barriers to accessing breaks and promote social inclusion through group activities and wellbeing initiatives. Align with the Care Reform (Scotland) Act to support carers right to regular, sufficient breaks. 6. Create coordinated pathways to identify critical concerns in caring situations, build service capacity to respond, and use feedback and data to continuously improve support services for carers. 7. Work with carers and partners to develop a toolkit to support future and emergency plans to reduce stress during unexpected events. “I feel I can contact my social worker any time. The support I get I have built up with other unpaid carers over the years. I have been able to build community connections, but it has taken years. I was never offered any emotional or mental health support and was labelled as being overanxious, not looking at the reasons for it. For the first time in all the years I have been caring, I have been able to engage with an intergenerational group which allows me to go out and make a difference within my community. It has made me realise I need to take time back for myself.”
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22 North Ayrshire Young Carers Young carers may have different challenges or support needs compared to adult carers. This part of the strategy focuses on young carers in North Ayrshire to make sure their needs, rights and experiences are properly understood and supported. It also follows national legislation and policies. Young carers often need to look after someone while also going to school, making friends and growing up. Without the right help and information, they can feel lonely, fall behind in school, or struggle with their own mental and physical health. The Carers (Scotland) Act 2016 says young carers should get the right support through a Young Carers Statement. This helps make sure their voices are heard, and their needs are not forgotten in general carer plans. It also means support services should be designed with young carers in mind. A Jargon Buster for young carers was developed to help young people understand some of the key points that matter to them within the Carer (Scotland) Act 2016. Who is a young carer? Some children or young people start caring at an early age and do not really realise they are young carers. Other young people may become young carers overnight.
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23 Tasks a young carer could do. A young carer might do one or more of the following things, which can have a big impact on their lives. They help with these tasks because of someone’s illness or disability. Domestic This might be things like cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, looking after siblings, or paying bills. Emotional This can be things like spending time with the person they care for, keeping them company, keeping them safe or helping them when they feel low, or communicating for the person they support. Personal Care You might help the person you care for wash and shower, use the toilet, shave, or brush their teeth and hair.
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24 Local and national support for young carers Carers Gateway North Ayrshire offer a wide range of support for young carers to help them balance their caring responsibilities with their own wellbeing, education, and personal development. Here is a summary of the key support available: → Emotional and practical support → Support in education → Digital and financial support → Transitions and future planning → Breaks from caring → Peer support, social and recreational opportunities Further national support across Scotland which young carer may be able to access: Young Carers Grant: a yearly payment of £390.25 for young carers aged 16 to19 years old who provide care for an average of sixteen hours per week over at least three months. Young Carers Package – Young Scot is part of the Scottish Government’s commitment to recognising and supporting young carers. ARC Compass – A Guide Through Transitions is a powerful, free online tool designed to support young people with additional support needs, their families, and professionals through the transition to adult life in Scotland. Young Carers Scotland – Carers Trust provides policy, practice, and direct support for young carers, including research, toolkits, and links to local services. Scottish Young Carers Services Alliance is a national network that brings together all young carer initiatives across Scotland. Its goal is to share information and best practice, provide support and coordination and strengthen the quality and consistency of services for young carers.
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25 Young Carers across North Ayrshire In 2025 Carers Gateway North Ayrshire and North Ayrshire Council Education Services reported approximately 650 young carers identified across North Ayrshire. There are around 29,000 young carers in Scotland under the age of 18 years old and the real number might be even higher, because not everyone who helps care for someone is known or getting support. Research from Carers Trust Scotland says that one in five school aged children could have caring responsibilities. North Ayrshire’s identified young carers represent a small but significant portion of this population, highlighting the importance of continued local investment in support and recognition for young carers. Between October 2022 and March 2023, the number of young carers identified in schools went up by 50%. This shows that schools are getting better at spotting young carers and helping them get the support they need.
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26 In the same reporting period: • the number of Young Carers Statements offered to young carers more than trebled compared to previous years. • enhanced collaboration between education, health and social care partnership and Carers Gateway North Ayrshire showed a direct result in growth. • ongoing efforts to raise awareness and embed carer identification into routine practice also contributed to continued growth beyond 2023. Between April 2024 and March 2025, a total of 363 Young Carers Statements were completed via Education and Carers Gateway North Ayrshire staff.
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27 These results show how important it is to have everyone working together to identify and support young carers. It means young carers needs are noticed early, and they can get the help they deserve. Young carers do something important they help look after someone in their family who might have a physical or mental health condition, a disability, need support to communicate or have problems with alcohol or drugs. Many young carers say they feel close to their families and proud of what they do. But caring can also be tough, it can affect young carers own health and wellbeing, impact how well they do at school, or how easy it is to spend time with friends, being able to achieve at college or university, taking on a job or just having time to be by themselves.
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28 Why should we identify, inform, involve, and support young carers: The main strategy supports both young and adult carers, but we recognise that young carers may have unique needs or levels of support to allow them to be children and young people first and foremost. Young carers should receive age-appropriate information about their rights and services available to support them, and have their voices included in service design and care planning. They also should have access to practical and emotional support to help maintain their own health and wellbeing, stay in education or work and to reach their full potential the same as their peers.
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29 Pillar 1 Identify – Young Carers will be identified at the earliest opportunity. Identifying and recognising young carers at the earliest possible stage in their caring journey helps to improve their health, wellbeing and overall life chances and opportunities. By recognising young carers promptly, we can provide timely and appropriate information and support that enables them to thrive both in their caring role, if able and willing and as children and young people first and foremost. We aim to: 1. Expand training opportunities for education, health and social care staff and community groups to help them recognise how to identify young carers earlier. 2. Raise awareness through campaigns, events, and social media, including promotion of Carers Gateway North Ayrshire young carers self-help portal. 3. Develop resources with young carers for youth or community groups to identify and support young carers in informal settings. 4. Encourage schools, services, colleges and community partners to sign the Young Carers Covenant. 5. Promote and support schools across North Ayrshire to take on the Young Carers Challenge Scotland. 6. Work with Carers Champions within schools to create safe pathways for young carers to disclose their caring roles and access personalised tailored information and support. 7. Work with health professionals to identify young carers during routine appointments like routine vaccinations or school nurse visits.
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30 Pillar 2 Inform - Young Carers will be provided with the right information at the right time. To ensure that all young carers are provided with timely, accessible, and age-appropriate information that empowers them to understand their rights, access support, and make informed decisions. Ensuring young carers have the right information to support their health and wellbeing, education, and personal development. We aim to: 1. Ensure information is accessible and age appropriate to all young carers, including those with additional needs or language barriers (e.g. visual, translated, digital or one to one format). 2. Co-develop with young carers a clear, age-appropriate Young Carers Information Pack using plain language and offer regular feedback opportunities. 3. Provide learning sessions for staff to share information at key transition points (e.g. school changes, family circumstances, moving to college or work). 4. Create a parent/family resource to help families understand the importance of identifying and supporting young carers. 5. Involve young carers in shaping how information is shared, using multiple formats including the Carers Gateway North Ayrshire young carers self-help portal. 6. Develop resources to help young carers understand the roles of professionals and services that support them. 7. Work with schools, colleges, universities, and employers to work on pathways to ensure young carers are identified early, provided with the right information, and supported to succeed.
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31 Pillar 3 Involve – “Young Carers and the individuals they support work together with professionals and services, rather than having decisions made for them”. It is important to listen and value young carers' experiences and involve them to create positive change for their own caring roles and the services which are delivered to them and the individuals they support. We aim to: 1. Develop training and awareness opportunities to help young carers build confidence and self-advocacy skills. 2. Increase uptake of Young Carers Statements, encouraging young carers to set their own goals and priorities. 3. Champion peer-led initiatives like the Young Carers Champions Board or National Young Carers Festival to amplify young carers voices ensuring diverse voices are heard including young carers from minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities and young carers with their own disabilities or health needs. 4. Co-design pathways with young carers and partners to help them to participate in decisions affecting their own mental health and wellbeing. 5. Co-design resources and awareness campaigns with partners and young carers, using their lived experience to drive change.
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32 Pillar 4 Support - “Young Carers are supported to lead a healthy and fulfilling life”. Offering support at the right time means young carers can be supported to look after their own health and wellbeing. They can also access appropriate breaks from their caring role and look at opportunities to enhance practical life skills and training opportunities to achieve in education, employment or to be supported to have their voices heard. We aim to: 1. Partner with schools, youth, and community groups to help young carers access social activities, events, and access local support. 2. Create pathways for timely specialist support for young carers with health and social care teams, education, and partners. 3. Develop opportunities for young carers to engage in activities that support their own physical and mental wellbeing. 4. Develop and expand access to one-to-one support, peer support groups, social activities, and residential trips, removing barriers to participation for young carers. 5. Collaborate with partners to promote the offer and completion of Young Carers Statement to identify individual support needs. 6. Raise awareness of financial support options available to young carers like the Young Carers Grant, Independent Living Fund and Young Scot Young Carers Package. 7. Promote access to short breaks through Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, Young Carers Education Fund and the use of community supports. 8. Create clear referral pathways between young carers and young adult/ adult carer services, with tailored support for young carers moving into adulthood. This includes transition workshops focused on life skills, education, and employment.
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33 Supporting young carers in transition to adulthood The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a significant period of change, often accompanied by important decisions about education, employment, and personal development. For young carers, transition can be particularly complex as they balance their own aspirations with ongoing caring responsibilities. We are committed to ensuring that young carers approaching adulthood are not left to navigate this journey alone. Through the Young Adult Carer Service, delivered via Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, we provide tailored support to help young carers plan for their future while continuing to care for those who matter most to them. How Carers Gateway North Ayrshire can help: One-to-one support, to talk through personal goals and challenges with someone who understands the caring experience. Peer Support, to connect with other young adult carers, share experiences and build confidence in a safe and supportive environment. Help with your next steps, transition from Young Carers Statement to an Adult Carer Support Plan, support with college or university applications or exploring financial supports like Young Carers Transition Voucher, Young Carers Grant or Carers Support Payment. Ongoing advice and signposting, whether it is education, work, or just life skills to support young adult carers in building a positive and sustainable future.
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34 Support for former carers Caring can be a deeply meaningful part of life, but roles often change or end due to recovery, health changes, or bereavement. These transitions can leave former carers facing emotional, practical, or financial challenges. Support is available to help former carers rediscover their identity, rebuild confidence, and connect with others. Opportunities like peer support, volunteering, and involvement in forums such as the Carers Champion Boards can foster healing and reduce isolation. Former carers are encouraged to reconnect with their communities. Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, The Ayrshire Community Trust (TACT), and Arran Community & Voluntary Service (ACVS) can all help to explore volunteering opportunities. Carers Gateway North Ayrshire offers up to two years of post-caring support, including counselling referrals, financial and housing guidance, and help accessing education, training, or employment opportunities. Additional resources available locally and nationally include: • NHS Scotland – Anticipatory and Advance Care Planning • Healing Hearts Bereavement Group – Support in Irvine and Kilwinning • Breathing Space – Free, confidential support for those feeling low or anxious • Macmillan Cancer Support – Help for people affected by cancer. No matter what stage you are at in your caring journey, support is here to help you take the next steps with confidence and connections.
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35 Monitor and Review Keeping track of this Strategy is just as important as setting its goals. It helps make sure we are staying on the right path and are accountable to the carers we support. Publishing the Strategy is not the end, we will keep working to improve and find new, creative ways to support carers. We see this Strategy as a flexible, living document that will guide our work over the next three years. It can be updated to reflect changes in policy, law, or technology. The Health and Social Care Partnership Carers Team is responsible for reviewing and monitoring the Strategy. The Action Plan will be conducted in partnership with Carers Gateway North Ayrshire, carers, and other relevant partners. We will regularly check progress and share updates with carers and partners through groups like the Carers Champions Boards and the Integrated Joint Board. Complaints, Compliments and Comments You can make a complaint or pass on compliments and comments about this strategy by emailing the Carers Team. You can comment, make a complaint, or pass on compliments about the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership or North Ayrshire Integration Joint Board policies, decisions or decision making processes by visiting our complaints, compliments and comments page. You can also do so by: Speaking to a member of staff at your local Health and Social Care Partnership office Calling: 01294 317700 Writing to: Chief Officer, North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Integration Joint Board, 5th Floor West, Cunninghame House, Irvine, KA12 8EE
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‘Together We Care’ Carers Strategy 2026 - 2029 - Delivery Plan Pillar 1 - Identify Objectives Actions Expected Outcomes Assigned to Date Equip Primary Care and health professionals to identify carers earlier. • Promote use of Carers Gateway digital self-help portal. • Deliver awareness sessions to GPs, dentists, and community nurses and hospital staff. • Share tools and resources via digital platforms. -Improved carer identification in primary care settings. - Health professionals are better informed and more confident in identifying and referring carers. - Carers and professionals have easier access to helpful resources and information. HSCP Project Delivery Officer, Carers Gateway and NHS & Primary Care Increase awareness and understanding of carers' roles among professionals and build workforce capacity by embedding EPiC learning. • Promote Equal Partners in Care (EPiC) resource. • Facilitate learning sessions across sectors. • Embed EPiC in induction for staff. - Professionals have a better understanding of carers' needs and rights. - EPiC becomes a standard part of staff training and development. - Improved identification and support for carers across services. - Stronger partnerships between carers and professionals. HSCP Learning & Development Team, Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway Promote and embed the role Carers Support Worker in community hospitals to support carers during hospital stay and discharge planning. • Monitor carer engagement and discharge support -Carers receive timely information, advice, and support during transitions. -More carers supported during hospital admission/ discharge and reduced readmissions, delayed discharge and improved outcome for all. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Hospital Discharge Teams.
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Gather and analyse feedback from carers and professionals to refine identification methods and outreach. • Gather feedback from carers and professionals through surveys, interviews, and focus groups etc. • Analyse the feedback to identify strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement. • Update identification methods and outreach strategies based on findings. • Share insights and improvements with relevant teams and partners. -More carers are identified earlier and receive timely support. -Outreach becomes more targeted and effective. -Carers feel heard and valued. -Professionals are better equipped to recognise and support carers. HSCP Carers Development Officer, HSCP Project Delivery Officer, Carers Gateway. Ensure carer support is inclusive and accessible to diverse communities. • Develop outreach strategies with community groups co-design materials with ethnic minority, LGBTQ+, and Gypsy/Traveller communities. • Deliver targeted engagement and activities/ events. - Increased awareness and access to support among underrepresented communities. - Stronger relationships between services and diverse groups. - More carers from minority backgrounds feel recognised and supported. - Improved inclusivity in service design and delivery. Carers Project Officer/ Carers Gateway, ESOL, MECOPP. Identify carers in supported living and care settings • Engage with care homes, supported living and sheltered housing • Identify carers facing access barriers • Provide tailored information, advice and signposting - More carers in supported living and care settings are identified and supported. - Carers receive relevant and accessible information. - Reduced isolation and improved wellbeing for carers facing access barriers. - Stronger partnerships with supported living partners and care providers. Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Leads for care homes, supported living & sheltered housing.
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Run social media awareness campaigns encouraging self- identification and reducing stigma. • Run targeted social media campaigns to reach carers and the wider community. • Share real-life carer stories and clear pathways to support to build trust and understanding. • Monitor engagement (likes, shares, comments, reach) and adjust messaging to improve impact. - Greater visibility of carer support services. - Increased engagement from carers and communities. - More carers accessing support through digital platforms. - Improved messaging based on audience feedback and data. Carers Gateway, HSCP Communication Officer, Project Delivery Officer. Pillar 2 - Inform Objectives Actions Expected Outcomes Assigned to Date Make carer support more accessible and responsive to key life events. • Extend Carers Gateway North Ayrshire service hours (8am–8pm, 7 days) • Develop tailored resources for key transition points (e.g. diagnosis, hospital discharge, bereavement) - Carers can access support when they need it, including evenings and weekends (supporting working carers). - Carers feel better prepared and supported during major life changes. - Increased satisfaction and engagement with Carers Gateway services. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway. Ensure carer information is accurate, accessible, and up to date across digital platforms. • Audit and update carer content on HSCP, Carers Gateway websites & Self- Help Portal • Maintain and promote Carers Gateway North Ayrshires self-help portal - Content reflects current policies, services, and resources, reducing misinformation. - More carers use the websites and portal due to improved usability. HSCP Carers Project Officer, HSCP Communication Officer, Carers Gateway.
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More carers know about the portal through targeted promotion campaigns. Increase understanding of carers’ rights among professionals and carers. • Deliver workshops and training sessions on Carers Rights and the Carers Charter across sectors. • Design and distribute targeted materials for health settings (e.g. GP surgeries, hospitals, dental practices). - Professionals are more aware of carers’ rights and responsibilities. - Carers feel more informed and empowered. - Increased recognition and support for carers in health settings. - Consistent messaging about carers’ rights across services. HSCP Carers Project Officer, Carers Gateway. Improve access to financial advice and benefits support for carers. • Partner with Money Smart to deliver tailored benefits advice and financial guidance to carers. • Promote financial support services through Carers Gateway and community outreach. • Ensure carers are aware of available resources and how to access them. - Carers feel more confident managing finances and accessing benefits. - Increased uptake of financial support services. - Reduced financial stress among carers. - Stronger partnerships between financial support services and carer networks. Carers Gateway, HSCP Money Smart. Raise awareness of carer support and strengthen community connections. • Use libraries, schools, and community spaces to host carer-focused events and drop-ins. • Deliver informal “lunch and learn” “Tea and Talk” sessions for professionals and community members to Increased visibility of carer support in local communities. - Greater understanding of carers’ roles among professionals and the public. - Stronger HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway.
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increase understanding of carers’ needs. • Support and promote Carers Champion Boards for both adult and young carers to ensure their voices are heard. representation of carers in decision-making. - More carers accessing support through trusted community spaces. Ensure carers with limited digital access can benefit from online resources and support. • Identify carers who face barriers to using digital tools (e.g. no device, internet access, or digital skills). • Look at alternative funding and opportunities to provide devices such as tablets or laptops where needed. • Offer digital skills training and ongoing support to help carers confidently use online resources like the Carers Gateway self-help portal. - More carers can access digital support and information. - Increased confidence and independence in using online tools. - Reduced digital exclusion among carers. - Improved access to services and resources for all carers. HSCP Project Delivery Officer, Carers Gateway. Pillar 3 - Involve Objectives Actions Expected Outcomes Assigned to Date Strengthen carer involvement in service design and decision-making • Support carers to actively participate in Carers Champion Boards and commissioning processes. • Develop structured feedback methods such as surveys, focus groups, and listening events. • Use carer feedback to inform planning, service delivery, and evaluation. - Carers feel heard, valued, and involved in decision-making. - Services better reflect the real needs and experiences of carers. - Stronger partnerships between carers and professionals. - Continuous improvement based on lived experience. HSCP Carers Development Officer, HSCP Engagement Team, Carers Gateway.
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Ensure carers are recognised, involved, and supported in care planning and hospital processes. • Promote the use of Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carer Statements to identify needs and provide tailored support. • Involve carers during hospital stays and discharge planning to ensure continuity of care. • Train staff to recognise carers and include them in care discussions and decisions. -Carers feel valued and included in care processes. - Improved communication and planning between carers and professionals. - Increased uptake of support plans and statements. - Better outcomes for both carers and the people they support. HSCP Carers Support Worker (SWA), Carers Gateway. Ensure carers from all backgrounds feel included and have opportunities to engage meaningfully. • Develop an engagement plan that reflects the needs and experiences of carers from ethnic minority, LGBTQ+, and Gypsy/Traveller communities. • Offer culturally sensitive and flexible ways to get involved, such as online and in-person sessions, multilingual materials, and trusted community-led approaches. - Increased participation from underrepresented carer groups. - Carers feel respected, understood, and included. - Services are shaped by a wider range of voices and experiences. - Improved equity in access to support and decision-making. HSCP Carers Development Officer, HSCP Engagement Team, Carers Gateway, ESOL, MECOPP. Empower carer representatives to confidently participate in decision- making forums. • Provide training and peer support opportunities for carer reps to build skills and confidence. • Share timely and accessible information ahead of meetings (e.g. IJB, Carers Champions Boards). • Offer ongoing support and check-ins to ensure reps feel prepared and valued. - Carer reps feel confident and well- informed. - Increased and meaningful participation in strategic forums. - Stronger representation of carer voice in planning and decision-making. - Improved outcomes through lived experience input. HSCP Carers Development Officer/Carers Gateway.
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Empower carers to express their views and influence services. • Partner with North Ayrshire Advocacy Service to support carers in speaking up and being heard. • Use the Carers Gateway portal and social media to promote opportunities for carers to get involved. • Provide guidance and support to help carers share their views and take part in shaping services. - More carers actively involved in service design and decision- making. - Increased awareness of advocacy and involvement opportunities. - Carers feel confident and supported to express their views. - Services better reflect the needs and experiences of carers. HSCP Project Officer, Carers Gateway, VoiceAbility. Pillar 4 - Support Objectives Actions Expected Outcome Assigned to Date Increase uptake of Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carer Statements. • Promote awareness of personalised support options through Carers Gateway and partner networks. • Training opportunities for staff to confidently offer and complete Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carer Statements. • Monitor uptake of plans/statements and evaluate outcomes to inform future improvements. - More carers access personalised support tailored to their needs. - Staff feel confident and equipped to offer and deliver support planning. - Improved wellbeing and outcomes for carers. - Data driven improvements to service delivery. HSCP Project Officer, HSCP Carers Support Worker (SWA), Carers Gateway.
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Improve emotional wellbeing support for carers during and after their caring role. • Partner with counselling services to offer support that reflects carers’ unique challenges. • Set up peer-led wellbeing groups to create safe spaces for carers to connect and share. • Promote emotional health resources through Carers Gateway, social media, and community networks. • Engage with and promote trauma-informed approaches across services. - Carers feel emotionally supported and less isolated. - Increased access to counselling and peer support. - Greater awareness and use of emotional wellbeing resources. - Services are more sensitive to the impact of trauma and caring responsibilities. HSCP Learning and Development Team, Carers Gateway. Enhance carers’ health, wellbeing, and access to support through collaborative and flexible approaches. • Partner with health services to deliver routine health checks • Promote physical and mental wellbeing initiatives (e.g. stress management, peer support, access to health and wellbeing opportunities) • Pilot flexible access options (e.g. evening/weekend services, virtual and mobile outreach) - Improved health awareness and early intervention for carers. - Increased engagement in wellbeing activities, to reduce isolation and increase health and wellbeing. - Greater accessibility and uptake of flexible support services. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway. Support carers in employment and promote Carer Positive • Partner with local businesses to raise awareness of carers need. • Promote flexible working and return-to-work support for carers. • Encourage uptake of Carer Positive accreditation. - Increased employer awareness and engagement. - More carers supported to remain in or return to work. - Growth in Carer Positive accredited organisations. HSCP Carers Development Officer, NAC HR, Carers Gateway.
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Empower carers through inclusive, co-designed support and improved access to meaningful breaks, wellbeing activities, and day services. • Co-design services with carers and those they support. • Identify and address barriers to accessing breaks. • Promote inclusive group activities and wellbeing initiatives. • Explore access to day support, respite services and use of Self-directed Support. - Services better aligned with carers’ needs and those they support. - Increased access to and uptake of breaks from caring. - Enhanced social connection and wellbeing among carers. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway. Strengthen carer support through proactive risk identification, responsive services, and continuous improvement. • Identify high-risk caring situations. • Build service capacity to respond. • Use feedback and data to improve services. Earlier intervention in complex or crisis situations. - More responsive and resilient support systems. - Data-informed service improvements aligned with carers’ needs. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, HSCP Services. Create toolkit for future and emergency planning • Co-design future and emergency planning toolkit with carers and partners. • Include practical guidance and digital resources. • Promote through Carers Gateway North Ayrshire and community networks. - Toolkit reflects real needs and experiences of carers across North Ayrshire. - Increased awareness and confidence in accessing support. - Wider reach for carers through Carers Gateway and community networks. HSCP Project Officer, Carers Gateway.
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Young Carers Delivery Plan Pillar 1 - Identify Young Carers Objectives Actions Expected Outcome Assigned to Date Increase awareness and engagement among young carers through co-designed resources and targeted outreach. • Engage young carers in resource content and design • Distribute materials to youth clubs, sports groups, and community hubs *Youth and community groups better equipped to identify and support young carers *Increased visibility and support in informal community settings. HSCP Project Officer, Carers Gateway, NAC Youth Services. Encourage and support sign-up to the Young Carers Covenant. • Promote the Young Carers Covenant to schools, colleges, local supports and services. • Provide guidance and support for implementation *More organisations committed to supporting young carers *Consistent standards of support Carers Gateway, Education. Promote and support the Young Carers Challenge in schools. • Support schools to deliver the Challenge • Celebrate achievements through events and recognition *Increased engagement and awareness in schools *Empowered young carers Carers Gateway, Education. Create safe, supportive environments for young carers through trusted relationships and tailored resources. • Work with Carers Champions in schools to establish safe spaces for young carers to self-identify. • Provide tailored information and support for young carers. - Increased emotional safety and trust - Improved access to relevant personalised support and guidance for young carers. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Education.
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Improve identification and support for young carers during health appointments. • Provide training/ awareness opportunities for health professionals to recognise young carers. • Embed identification prompts in routine appointments (e.g. vaccinations, nurse visits) - Earlier recognition of young carers. - Increased access to appropriate support. - Stronger relationships and emotional safety for young carers. - Increased identification through health services. - Better integration of support pathways for young carers. HSCP Carers Development Officer Carers Gateway, Primary Care Staff, School Nurses, Education. Pillar 2 - Inform Young Carers Objectives Actions Expected Outcome Assigned to Date Equip young carers with accessible, relevant information through co- designed resources and targeted promotion. • Collaborate with young carers to design content for a Young Carers Information Pack. • Use plain language and include regular feedback. - Resources reflect young carers lived experiences. - Increased awareness and confidence in young carers accessing support. - Increased engagement with support services for young carers. HSCP Project Officer, Carers Gateway, Education, Youth Services. Strengthen staff capacity to support young carers during key life transitions. • Deliver training/ awareness to staff on supporting young carers during transitions (e.g. school changes, family changes, moving to college/work). • Embed carer awareness in transition planning across services. - Improved staff awareness and confidence. - More consistent support for young carers during key life transitions. Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Education, HSCP Services.
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Support families of young carers through accessible, co-designed resources and guidance. • Develop materials to help families understand young carers’ roles. • Promote through schools, community, health & social care services, and Carers Gateway. - Increased awareness and understanding among families. - Improved access to relevant support for young carers and families. - Stronger family engagement in young carers’ wellbeing. - Increased. identification and engagement from young carers and families. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway. Help young carers understand and navigate support systems through age-appropriate, role-specific resources. • Create guides to help young carers understand who supports them and how. • Include visuals and plain language. - Increased understanding of who does what in support networks - Greater confidence in seeking help and stronger engagement with professionals and services. - Improved trust in services supporting young carers. HSCP Project Delivery Officer, Carers Gateway. Pillar 3 - Involve Young Carers Objectives Actions Expected Outcome Assigned to Date Strengthen recognition and support for young carers through proactive identification and personalised planning. • Promote the benefits of setting personal goals • Support young carers to complete statements with guidance - More young carers receiving tailored support. - Earlier identification and intervention. - Improved wellbeing for young carers and HSCP Carers Support Worker (SWA), Carers Gateway.
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• Monitor uptake and outcomes of Young Carers Statements • Increase the offer and uptake of Young Carers Statements. support in achieving goals to support their own health, wellbeing and life opportunities. Empower young carers by amplifying their voices and fostering peer-led support. • Support participation in Young Carers Champions Board and National Young Carer Festival. • Ensure representation from minority ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, and young carers with disabilities. - Increased confidence and leadership among young carers. - More inclusive and representative support materials for all young carers. - Stronger peer networks and sense of belonging. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway. Improve mental health support for young carers through collaborative design and accessible pathways. • Collaborate and co-design with mental health pathways with young carers and mental health services. • Create accessible pathways for involvement in wellbeing decisions. - Mental health support reflects lived young carers experiences. - Increased trust and engagement with services. - More inclusive and responsive mental health pathways. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Mental Health services. Pillar 4 - Support Young Carers Objectives Actions Expected Outcomes Assigned to Dates Develop and enhance wellbeing and social opportunities for young carers through accessible community-based opportunities. • Improve access to social activities and local supports for young carers. • Promote inclusive events and local support services aimed at young carers. - Increased participation in social and community life. - Stronger peer connections and reduced isolation HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway.
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• Offer physical and mental wellbeing programmes • Include creative, outdoor, and therapeutic activities - young carers will be supported to maintain their own health. *Increased engagement in wellbeing initiatives. Improve financial awareness and access for young carers and their families. • Promote Young Carers Grant, ILF, and Young Scot Package etc. • Provide guidance through schools and Carers Gateway North Ayrshire. - Increased uptake of financial support. - Reduced financial stress for young carers and families. - Better-informed decision-making around available entitlements. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Education, Money Smart. Increase awareness, accessibility, and uptake of short breaks and education funds for young carers. • Launch targeted campaigns via social media, schools, GP surgeries, and community hubs to raise awareness of available short breaks. • Deliver short training sessions or briefing packs to professionals (teachers, social workers, health staff) to help them identify and signpost carers. • Offer one-to-one or group- based support sessions to help young carers complete applications for short breaks. - Increased visibility and uptake of short break opportunities and use of education fund. - Young carers can access meaningful breaks from caring responsibilities. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Education. Create clear referral pathways between young carers and young adult/ adult carer services, with tailored support for young carers moving into adulthood. This includes transition workshops focused on life skills, education, and employment. • Set up clear referral pathways between young carer and young adult/ adult carer services. • Run transition workshops focused on life skills, education, and employment. *Young carers feel supported and prepared for adulthood. *Increased engagement with young adult and adult carer services. *Improved confidence, wellbeing, and future opportunities for young carers as they transition. HSCP Carers Development Officer, Carers Gateway, Education.
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Progress Report ‘Building Caring Communities’ North Ayrshire Carers Strategy 2023-2025
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Contents Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 3 Priority 1: Carers are actively sought and identified .................................................... 5 Priority 2: Carers are informed, confident, and supported ........................................... 6 Priority 3: Carers Are Offered and Supported to Prepare Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carers Statements ........................................................................................ 8 Priority 4 - Promoting variety in breaks from caring ..................................................... 9 Priority 5 - Carers feel involved as equal partners in care design and delivery........ 11 Priority 6 - Stronger partnership working and engagement ....................................... 12 Priority 7 - Improved identification, information, and support for young carers with a focus on transition periods through to adulthood ...................................................... 14 Challenges and lessons learned .................................................................................. 17 Future recommendations .............................................................................................. 18
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Introduction In 2023, North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership launched its interim Carers Strategy, ‘Building Caring Communities’, covering the years 2023 to 2025. This strategy showed our commitment to extending our reach to identify more carers across North Ayrshire. We identified seven key priorities to help strengthen carer services, focusing on better information, systems, and support. By working closely with carers, Carers Gateway North Ayrshire (formerly North Ayrshire Carers Centre) and other partners, we aimed to create a more inclusive, flexible, and long-lasting community support system for carers. For consistency, Carers Gateway North Ayrshire will be referred to as Carers Gateway throughout this document. In July 2023 our strategic partner, was awarded the new Carers Service contract with key requirements designed to enhance the provision of information and support for carers across North Ayrshire, while improving accessibility to services. These included but not limited to: • Collaborative working: to work in partnership to achieve the seven strategic priorities and to meet service delivery specifications. • Recruitment and partnerships: increased recruitment efforts and comprehensive partnership mapping to strengthen local networks. • Team expansion: to grow the team by introducing additional outreach and specialist roles to engage more carers, in more places, in more ways. • Continuity of service: ensuring uninterrupted support for carers while expanding service capacity.
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• Improved information access: development of clearer information pathways and digital enhancements, including a new information and advice portal. • Extended service hours: expanding service availability to support carers, offering greater flexibility and accessibility to all carers. This report outlines the progress achieved to date and highlights key accomplishments during the lifetime of the strategy. It also examines challenges encountered and lessons learned along the way, providing recommendations to inform the development of our new Carers Strategy “Together We Care”.
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Priority 1: Carers are actively sought and identified. As of October 2025, Carers Gateway has registered 1,888 carers aged five years and above. This includes 921 individuals newly identified and registered since June 2023. These figures represent approximately 10% of the 17,222 unpaid carers identified in North Ayrshire through Scotland’s Census 2022. To support this growth, Carers Gateway has expanded its staffing complement from 4.5 to 17 staff members. The strategic deployment of community-based support staff within local communities and educational settings has significantly strengthened carer identification efforts across all six localities: Irvine, Kilwinning, Three Towns, North Coast & Isle of Cumbrae, Garnock Valley, and the Isle of Arran. Over the past two years, Carers Gateway has successfully delivered Carers Roadshows across all six localities, bringing vital information, resources, and support directly to carers in their communities. These events have played a key role in raising awareness of carers' rights and services, while fostering stronger local connections. Future roadshows will be strategically aligned with major community events in each locality. This approach aims to broaden engagement, increase visibility, and ensure that more carers especially those who may not yet be connected to support networks can access the help they need in familiar, welcoming settings. In partnership with English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), MECOPP, and support via the Coalition of Carers in Scotland Supporting Ethnically Diverse Carers group, the identification and engagement of hidden carers across North Ayrshire have significantly been strengthened. This includes increased outreach to carers from ethnic minority backgrounds and gypsy/traveller community groups that have historically faced barriers in identifying as carers and accessing support. The launch of the Carers Gateway digital self-help portal has been pivotal in transforming access to information and support for carers. This 24/7 platform empowers carers to explore resources, build personalised support plans, and connect with services at their own pace. Combined with a targeted Google Ads campaign, the portal has reached over 5,107 new carers, with more than 4,000 users accessing information and 4,644 carers creating self-help plans. This marks a significant step forward in identifying hidden carers using digital innovation.
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Priority 2: Carers are informed, confident, and supported. A new Carer Information Pack, co-produced with carers, has been developed to provide relevant support and guidance in one accessible resource. This pack reflects the lived experiences of carers and ensures that the information is practical, clear, and meaningful. To further improve accessibility, Carers Gateway information leaflets are now available in multiple formats and languages, including Arabic, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, Kurdish Sorani, and Pashto/Dari supporting carers from diverse backgrounds to access the information and help they need. Social media continues to be a powerful tool for information and engagement, particularly Facebook, with Carers Gateway page now having 1,612 followers, the majority of whom are women aged 35 to 54 years old. This platform has proven highly effective in reaching carers with timely updates, resources, and opportunities for connection. The launch of Carers Gateway’s new website alongside the digital self-help portal has significantly enhanced digital accessibility. These digital platforms offer carers 24/7 access to information, personalised support planning, and a centralised hub for resources, empowering carers to take control of their support journey in a way that suits their needs. Carers Gateway has embedded a dedicated Carer Support Worker (Health) post within Woodland View, Irvine and Lady Margaret Hospital, Millport, ensuring carers are identified and receive timely information and support during key stages of their cared-for person's journey from admission through to discharge planning. In Arran War Memorial Hospital, carers are being supported by the local Carers Gateway Family Carer Support Worker, providing continuity of care and tailored assistance within the community.
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This integrated approach strengthens the connection between health services and carer support, ensuring carers are recognised and supported throughout the healthcare experience. Carers Gateway has developed dedicated outreach services across all six localities, ensuring carers are supported within their own communities. This includes: • targeted outreach in schools to identify, inform, and support young carers. • community-based engagement for adult carers, helping to raise awareness, provide information, and connect individuals with the support they need. In addition, Carers Gateway continues to support two constituted carers groups in the Three Towns and North Coast areas, strengthening peer support and local networks. This locality-based approach strengthens visibility, accessibility, and early intervention ensuring carers of all ages are recognised and supported wherever they live in North Ayrshire. In collaboration with Carers Gateway, professionals across multiple services have developed a deeper understanding of caring roles and their impacts, enabling earlier identification of carers and more effective signposting to appropriate support. Additional resources to inform and support carers across North Ayrshire are available including: Carers UK Digital Resource Carers Academy (Dementia support) VoiceAbility (Advocacy) Money Smart (Financial and Welfare advice)
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Priority 3: Carers Are Offered and Supported to Prepare Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carers Statements Since 2018, Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carer Statements have enabled carers to identify and address their own support needs. In May 2025, an updated Young Carers Statement was launched, with ongoing work to enhance the current Adult Carer Support Plan based on carers feedback due to be launched early 2026. Carers now have flexible options to complete assessments via Health and Social Care Partnership teams, schools, or Carers Gateway, empowering carers to choose the most suitable individual to support them. Annual quality reviews of completed plans ensure evolving needs for carers are being met. For carers supporting someone with a terminal illness, an Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carer Statement are offered to carers within two days of identification, ensuring timely and compassionate support. The table below shows that the offer and completion of Adult Carer Support Plans and Young Carers Statements has continued to increase between 2023 and 2025. Between 2023 and 2025, North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership provided an additional £70,000 in one-off funding to support carer who completed an Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carers Statement. This funding enabled carers to: • take a much-needed break from their caring role. • Access life opportunities that improver their overall quality of life. • Access KA Leisure memberships to provide health and wellbeing opportunities. This increase in funding reflects a strong and ongoing commitment to supporting carers health and wellbeing, ensuring more carers can benefit from the help they need at critical moments in their caring journey. We are aware that the Care Reform (Scotland) Act 2025 will bring changes to timescales for the offer and completion of support plans, as well as recognition for carers of those in residential care. The next Carers Strategy will take these changes into account, ensuring the strategy reflects updated national priorities and continues to meet the needs of carers in North Ayrshire.
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Priority 4 - Promoting variety in breaks from caring. In North Ayrshire, we believe short breaks should be personalised, creative, and unique to each carer. These breaks are essential in helping carers maintain their wellbeing, recharge, and continue in their roles with confidence and support. In February 2025, we published our updated Short Breaks Services Statement, outlining how carers can access a break from caring and what that might look like both locally and further afield. Through Carers Gateway and Shared Care Scotland’s Time to Live funding, carers now have more opportunities to enjoy life outside of their caring role. These breaks have been vital in sustaining carers’ health and wellbeing and preventing burnout. The impact of this funding, delivered by Carers Gateway, is clear: This growth demonstrates our commitment to making short breaks more inclusive and accessible, ensuring carers across North Ayrshire feel supported in maintaining their own health and wellbeing. A carer applied for Time to Live funding to access a non-UK version of a wireless magic keyboard for their tablet. The carer is a keen writer and having a keyboard in their own language enabled them to use free time from their caring role to write creative stories that are meaningful to them. This has had a positive impact on the carer’s mental health and wellbeing.
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Carers Gateway have delivered variety of seasonal activities over the last two years, including residential trips for young carers to the Honey Pot and the Young Carers Annual Festival. Notably, 52 families attended a local pantomime, benefiting 203 individuals with a joyful break from caring. Additional support was provided through: • The Carers Fund (via Carers Trust): Supporting household items, repairs, courses, equipment, driving lessons, and breaks. In the financial year 2024/25, 16 applications by Carers Gateway resulted in over £5,000 additional funding for carers. • North Ayrshire Carers Appreciation Card: With over 1,200 carers signed up and 48 supporting businesses, the card offers discounts and concessions to promote wellbeing and provide everyday breaks from caring. • Carefree: A flexible short breaks initiative offering carers affordable overnight stays across the UK, enabling multiple breaks per year at just £33 per break. Carers Gateway is also proud to deliver Respitality in partnership with Shared Care Scotland. This initiative provides meaningful breaks and wellbeing experiences for carers. To date, several successful events have been delivered: • Taste of History Tickets – Irvine • Scottish Maritime Museum Visit – Irvine • Lunch and Learn Sessions – Riverside, Irvine (focused on Power of Attorney and Guardianship) Plans are underway to expand the Lunch and Learn model with future sessions on topics that matter most to carers. Carers Gateway, in collaboration with Ayrshire College Kilwinning campus, supported carers to participate in a therapy afternoon, combining relaxation with practical support and information about short break opportunities. Adult Carers support groups, and one to one session’s are hosted across all six localities, offering carers a safe and supportive space to share experiences, access peer and professional support, and take a break from their caring role. We remain committed to expanding opportunities for carers to access relevant information, learning, community-based networks, and meaningful breaks that support their wellbeing and resilience.
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Priority 5 - Carers feel involved as equal partners in care design and delivery. In North Ayrshire, we believe carers should be included and involved as much as possible in key decisions about their own support and the support of those they care for. We apply the Equal Partners in Care (EPiC) principles across all sectors, ensuring carers of all ages are recognised as equal and active partners in care. These principles promote a shared understanding among professionals of how to work collaboratively with carers. To strengthen the carer voice and influence, two new platforms were established: • Adult Carers Champions Board (February 2025) • Young Carers Champions Board (July 2025) These boards empower carers to shape decisions and services that impact their lives and those they care for, ensuring their experiences are heard and reflected in service design and delivery. Strategic representation is embedded at the highest level, with two Carer Representatives sitting on the Integrated Joint Board (IJB), which oversees the planning and delivery of health and social care services. Their presence ensures carers’ perspectives are considered in decisions that affect local carers and communities, aligning with national outcomes. We continue to invest in meaningful engagement. Carers Gateway’s Carers Conference, first held during Carers Week 2024 at Riverside, Irvine and again in 2025 at Oscars, Saltcoats, brought together over 200 young and adult carers and professionals. These events combined practical workshops and talks with relaxation opportunities, acknowledging both the emotional and practical needs of carers. In partnership with our Mental Health Engagement Officer and clinical teams at Woodland View, we explored carers’ experiences within acute inpatient mental health and addiction settings. The 2024 Carers Survey provided valuable insights into the lived experiences of carers supporting someone with mental ill health. These findings will inform future service redesign and ongoing engagement across NHS Ayrshire and Arran. In response to carer feedback, and in partnership with Carers Gateway and VoiceAbility, we launched the Pan Ayrshire Mental Health Carers Forum. Meeting monthly across community and hospital settings, these sessions offer: • Information and updates • Peer support • Opportunities for carers to be actively involved in service design. This forum strengthens the voice of carers in shaping mental health services and ensures their experiences are central to future improvements.
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Responding to carer feedback, we now offer monthly Moving and Handling Information Sessions. These three-hour sessions provide carers with hands-on guidance on equipment and techniques such as profiling beds, hoists, slings, and slide sheets, making caring tasks safer and more manageable. We also worked in partnership with Carers Gateway and education teams to co- deliver consultation sessions across schools with young people and partners. These sessions shaped the updated Young Carers Statement, launched in 2025, ensuring it reflected young carers’ voices and needs. We remain committed to co-producing services with carers, ensuring their voices continue to shape the future of support in North Ayrshire.
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Priority 6 - Stronger partnership working and engagement. We continue to promote and encourage effective relationships with carers, professional staff, and partner agencies to achieve better outcomes and opportunities for carers. We have strengthened our presence across all six localities by collaborating with local community groups and partners. Carers Gateway has embedded a wide range of community-based support for both adult and young carers. A summary of what's available across North Ayrshire can be found on Carers Gateway’s website. A Carers Gateway Locality Officer connected with a local lunch group and was able to identify and support carers facing poverty, poor mental health, and isolation. The worker continues to maintain the relationship with these carers through regular visits. The introduction of the Adult and Young Carers Champions Boards builds on this foundation, enhancing partnership working and ensuring carers are central to shaping services and decisions. In 2024, 175 carers responded to a survey exploring health and wellbeing opportunities across all six localities. Key findings included: • 42% of carers identified cost as a barrier to accessing local health and leisure services. In response, we partnered with KA Leisure to offer discounts via the Carers Appreciation Card and secured annual memberships at reduced rates through completion of an Adult Carer Support Plan or Young Carer Statement. We continued to engage with carers through surveys, face-to-face conversations, regular feedback from carer groups, and post-event evaluations (e.g. Roadshows and Carers Conference). This helps us understand what is working well, what needs improvement, and how carers prefer to engage. Recent feedback revealed: • 16% of carers prefer online engagement. • 40% would like access to services in the evening or at weekends.
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This highlights the need for extended service hours (8am to 8pm) and more online and out-of-hours events, particularly to support working carers. We ensure carers’ voices are heard at both local and national levels, through promotion and participation in events such as Carers Parliament, Young Carers Festival, and Coalition of Carers meetings. Our collaboration with local GP surgeries has led to increased visibility of carer support, with practices now displaying Carers Gateway posters or hosting carer- specific displays. In 2024, Carers Gateway began reviewing therapies provision for carers, moving away from a centralised model to better align with their locality-based approach. A survey with over 150 responses revealed: • Over one third preferred accessing therapies outside standard office hours. • Nearly two thirds favoured a voucher-based system for flexible appointments. • Most carers preferred accessing therapies within their own locality. In response, Carers Gateway engaged 17 local therapy providers, with 28 more expressing interest. They are now developing robust referral processes to ensure carers can access support in a way that suits their individual needs. Additionally, in partnership with local counsellors, they supported ten carers in 2024 to 2025 to access one-to-one Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Referrals are triaged by the counsellor, who then offers up to ten tailored 60-minute sessions. A carer attended a three-day Serenity Life Coaching training course, focused on anxiety management and relationship skills. Delivered in a ‘train-the-trainer’ format, the course not only supported the carer’s personal wellbeing but also equipped them to share knowledge and techniques with other carers in the future. In the carer’s own words: “It was such a refreshing and empowering experience. I not only learned how to manage my own anxiety better, but I now feel confident to help other carers who are going through similar struggles.” In June 2024, in partnership with Carers Gateway, we delivered a dynamic young carers awareness initiative at Arran High School. The programme featured three engaging activity sessions, team-building experiences, and a range of interactive elements designed to celebrate and support young carers in our community. Over 120 young people from the Arran locality participated, making it a vibrant and meaningful event that fostered understanding, connection, and peer support. Since August 2023, young carer registrations with Carers Gateway on Arran have risen dramatically from just one registered young carer to thirty. This growth demonstrates the increasing awareness, trust, and accessibility of available support, and underscores the critical importance of sustained outreach and engagement within the community.
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Priority 7 - Improved identification, information, and support for young carers with a focus on transition periods through to adulthood Young Carers information and awareness sessions have been delivered across schools, youth groups and at community events, helping to normalise conversations about caring and reduce stigma. We have worked closely with third sector and voluntary partners to raise awareness and strengthen identification efforts across all six localities in North Ayrshire. These partnerships continue to play a vital role in reaching young carers who may not be visible through traditional or education services. In October 2024, we launched the Young Carers Education Information Pack, providing school staff with clear guidance on how to identify, support and work with young carers. This resource supports a consistent and informed approach across all North Ayrshire schools. In January 2025, North Ayrshire Council and Carers Gateway signed the Young Carers Covenant, committing to outcomes shaped by young people. Twelve schools have already joined, with each school nominating a Young Carers Champion supported by Carers Gateway Young Carer staff, embedding young carer awareness and tailored support into school culture. We are encouraging and supporting schools to participate in the Young Carers in Schools Challenge. These initiatives promote a whole-school approach to identifying and supporting young carers, embedding carer awareness into school culture. In March 2025, Carers Gateway digital self-help portal for young carers was launched. The platform offers 24/7 access to a wide range of resources, information, and support. This digital tool enhances accessibility and ensures young carers can find help whenever they need it and an improved version was launched in August 2025.
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Between April 2024 and March 2025, a total of 363 Young Carers Statements were completed via Education and Carers Gateway staff. The graphics below demonstrate the level of support provided to young carers. Additionally, in July 2025, Carers Gateway launched the Young Carers Champions Board, a platform that empowers young carers to share their experiences, raise awareness, and influence decision-makers. This board ensures that young carers have a meaningful voice in shaping the services and policies that affect them. A structured transition pathway has been developed to support young carers as they move through key stages of life, particularly from age 16 onwards. Helping young carers to manage and prepare for changes in their caring role as they approach adulthood. The pathway ensures that changes in life circumstances such as education, employment, home life or caring roles trigger tailored information, advice and support. The improvements for carers throughout the seven priorities reflect a strategic shift toward co-produced, locality-based, and flexible support, ensuring carers are recognised, empowered, and supported in ways that matter most to them in their own communities.
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Challenges and lessons learned Here’s a summary of the significant obstacles encountered during the implementation of the Carers Strategy in North Ayrshire, along with the key insights and lessons learned: Cost barriers to accessing services. Many carers (42%) reported that financial constraints limited their ability to access health, leisure, and wellbeing opportunities. This highlighted the need for more inclusive and subsidised options. Limited-service hours Feedback revealed that a significant number of carers, especially working carers, struggled to engage with services offered only during standard office hours. This created a gap in provision and limited accessibility. Centralised therapy provision Therapies were initially only available at the Carer Centre in Irvine, which did not align with the locality-based model or carers preferences for flexibility and proximity. Under-representation in strategic planning Prior to the establishment of the Adult and Young Carers Champions Board and carer representation on the Integrated Joint Board, carers had limited formal avenues to influence decision making. Digital and engagement gaps While some carers preferred online engagement, others valued face to face interaction. Balancing these preferences requires a more hybrid and responsive approach.
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Future recommendations Future recommendations to build on the success of North Ayrshire’s Building Caring Communities Carer Strategy and address ongoing challenges in the ‘Together We Care’ Strategy 2026 to 2029. Expand flexible and inclusive service delivery. • Extend Carers Gateway hours to include evening and weekends (for example 8am to 8pm) to better support working carers and those with limited availability. • Continue developing hybrid engagement models (online and in-person) to meet diverse preferences and accessibility needs. Strengthen locality-based support. • Further decentralise services such as therapies, training and peer support to ensure carers can access help within their own communities. • Increase visibility and outreach in underrepresented areas through community partnerships and local events. Enhance financial support and accessibility. • Continue working with leisure and wellbeing partners to expand discount schemes and subsidised memberships. • Explore additional funding streams to support carers with digital access, cost of living pressures and access to breaks from caring. Deepen co-production and carer involvement. • Build on the Adult Carer and Young Carer Champion Boards by creating pathways for local advisory panels, peer support groups or focus groups to feed in and inform service design. • Increase opportunities for carers to participate in training, consultation and leadership roles within the partnership. Improve data collection and impact measurement. • Develop a centralised dashboard to track engagement, outcomes and feedback across North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, Carers Gateway and partners. • Use data to identify gaps, monitor progress and inform strategic planning. Expand mental health and emotional wellbeing support. • Scale up access to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and other therapeutic interventions, including trauma informed and culturally sensitive approaches. • Introduce group therapy or peer led wellbeing sessions to complement one-to- one support.
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Promote awareness and early identification. • Continue working with GP’s, hospitals, schools and community organisations to identify carers early and connect them to support. • Launch targeted campaigns to raise awareness of carers rights, services and the Carers Appreciation Card. Invest in training and development. • Offer carers ongoing training opportunities (for example moving and handling, digital skills, legal rights) tailored to their needs. • Provide professional development for staff to ensure consistent application of the EPiC principles and carer centred practices. North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership remain deeply committed to recognising, valuing, and supporting carers of all ages. Through collaborative working, co-designed services, and a strong focus on accessibility and wellbeing, we have made significant strides in improving outcomes for carers across our communities. The insights gained and lessons learned have shaped a forward-thinking Strategy that places carers at the heart of decision-making. As we move ahead, our focus will remain on strengthening partnerships, expanding flexible support, and ensuring carers are identified earlier in their caring journey, empowered to make decisions for themselves and the individual they care for, included in the service delivered and service design, and supported throughout their caring journey.