Falkirk West MSP Michael Matheson has signed the Carers Week pledge, committing himself to supporting carers in his constituency.

Carers Week, which starts on Monday, June 11, highlights the tireless work of the 6.5million unpaid carers across the UK.

Mr Matheson said: “Carers Week gives us all the chance to show our support and appreciation for the work carers do in our local communities – and I am committed to playing a positive role in this inspiring annual event.

“Across Scotland, there are an estimated 788,000 unpaid carers, with 44,000 of them under the age of 18. It is our duty to back them in whatever way we can.

“The Scottish Government has taken decisive action to help unpaid carers, investing more than £135million in a range of initiatives and passing a new Carers Act, which extends their rights and ensures they get better support.

“We also plan to increase Carers Allowance through the new Social Security Agency, giving them that little bit of extra financial help that can go a long way.”
Carers Week, which is supported by eight major charities, aims to raise awareness of the challenges carers face and recognise the major contribution they make to communities throughout the UK.

This year, the campaign focuses on building communities that support the health and wellbeing of carers.