Carers in Scotland took part in an inspiring debate at the Scottish Parliament.   MSPs  were given a frank account of the daily struggle which many carers face, just to get basic services.

Cathy Peattie MSP who chairs Carers and Equal Opportunties parliamentary groups - invited carers to highlight their priorities for carers' equal opportunities for a new review:   

• Fiona Fisher, a parent carer from Dunfermline highlighted carers lack of rights compared with employed workers.  She has drawn up a carers' rights charter, whcih she has promoted on Scottish TV, including the right to

1. a living wage
2. time off
3. emergency and sickness cover
4. training
5. an occupational pension

• Carolyn Leckie, MSP for Central Scotland, and a carer for her mother, had to battle to get any information out of the Council or find the right department.  She persisted and eventually got to speak to someone but said, "if you're not a politician, it must be terrifying." Her priority was: "one point of contact for carers- someone to take responsibility for the fighting and resolve the situation for carers".

Carers in Scotland will be able to submit their views to MSPs shortly. In the meantime if you would like more information about the consultation or this event, please email: fiona.collie@carerscotland.org