Carer fights Council cuts

David from Aberdeen, cares for his mother.  David is appalled that the city council has announced cuts of some £27 million to council services. Local people are extremely worried about the effect of the cuts which will hit services for disabled people, sports facilities and schools.

Breaks for carers

David is particularly concerned that the City Council are planning to close a day respite centre called "CHOICES" - David describes this as “the main and only one in the City that caters for all kinds of people with a wide range of disabilities,”.  He feels this service gives “valuable respite time for carers like myself!”.

Local campaign

David has been taking action to raise awareness of these cuts and has spoken out about the impact this will have on carers.  Although his mother is likely to receive an alternative services elsewhere, no mention has been made of breaks for carers.   David’s campaigning has been campaigning hard to highlight this issue – he has taken part in 2 radio interviews for Scotland-wide stations,  as well as participating in public debates, meetings and rallies. 

Read more

Petition

David has recently started a petition to gather support – you can back his campaign here

Media coverage:

Scottish Television

Scotsman newspaper

Information about carers rights

To find out more about your rights and the ways in which you can challenge decisions about the level of services provided to the person you care for, read Carers Uk's guide “Carers and their Rights” - more...

Carers Scotland has produced a similar guide to carers' rights in Scotland - more...

Carers can also get their their local authority to prioritise carers' needs when they are planning services - see our guide to the 2007 Spending Review - more...