Making a difference

Making a Respitality

Lockdown has affected us all as a nation. The impact it has had on unpaid carers in Scotland, however, has been substantial.

Research by Carers Scotland towards the end of 2020 revealed that 78% of unpaid carers stated that their caring role has increased due to COVID-19, both because of services being reduced or closed, and because of worries of using services due to the risk of infection.

As well as increased demand on carers, there’s also been a significant increase in the number of carers in Scotland. An estimated 392,000 people have become unpaid carers a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, taking the total to over 1 million. As a result, unpaid carers are reporting increase pressure and demand within their caring role, and other aspects of their lives. Due to lockdown restrictions, the people of Scotland have found their social connections limited. As a result of this experience, the nation are displaying a much greater understanding and sense of empathy for unpaid carers in our communities. For many unpaid carers, feeling isolated has been a reality for them long before Covid-19, and this will continue to be a reality for them beyond this pandemic. To help unpaid carers continue in their caring role now and for the future, they need to have access to regular short breaks, which are absolutely vital for their physical and mental wellbeing. Respitality is coordinated nationally by charity Shared Care Scotland - with support from Scottish Government - and connects local carers’ organisations with hospitality, tourism and leisure businesses who are willing to donate a break free of charge, giving carers a vital break from their caring role. Since launching 5 years ago, we have been able to support over 3,000 carers receive a short break, thanks to the support of over 350 businesses. Hostelling Scotland has been a strong supporter of the project, donating numerous breaks from 13 of their beautiful hostels across Scotland since 2017. We have seen our relationship with Hostelling Scotland strengthen into a mutually supportive relationship during

difference

the pandemic, as we continue to be each other’s “cheerleaders” at a time that has taught us the importance of supporting and lifting one another up. More than ever, we feel that Respitality has a role to play in not only helping carers access the short breaks they need, but crucially we also hope it can help rebuild confidence in the Scottish hospitality, tourism and leisure sector at this time, when they need it most. A massive happy 90th anniversary to Hostelling Scotland from your good friends at Respitality. We cannot wait to celebrate with you in style when the time is right! An unpaid carer is defined as a person who cares for a family member, friend or neighbour who would be unable to manage without their support. The people they care for may be affected by disability, physical or mental ill-health, frailty or substance misuse.

More information about Respitality can be found on their website www. sharedcarescotland.org.uk/respitality/

“Respitality mascots” Photos by Leroy