A Carer is anyone who helps a family member, relative, neighbour or friend who is ill, frail or disabled, to enable that person to go on living at home. The care provided is unpaid.

Carers are now recognised by the Scottish Executive as key partners in providing care. Carers provide 95% of Community Care free of charge whilst the Scottish Executive has difficulty in finding resources to pay for the remaining 5%

The aims of the Network are:

to advance the education and understanding of the needs and service requirements of those in the community who care for others

to work with, support and consult with Carers and to inform them of services and provision that may affect them and those for whom they care

to consult with relevant and statutory and voluntary agencies on issues that affect Carers and in doing so, raise awareness of those issues

Membership is open to all those in Argyll and Bute who care for others, including young Carers and those individuals who wish to further the aims of the organisation. Members are given the means and opportunity to raise concerns and issues that can be addressed by the Network. Meetings are held bi-monthly.

For information about the Network please contact Elisabeth Johnston on 01700 502409