Protective virus equipment will be given to unpaid carers from next week, the Scottish Government has pledged.

The PPE supplies will be made available at local hubs which already distribute stock for social care workers.

Health secretary Jeane Freeman pledged earlier this month that protective equipment would be available for those who care for loved ones with serious health conditions.

Unpaid carers have raised concerns about the impact if they or the person they are looking after were to fall ill with the virus.

The announcement came as a leading charity has also called for improved financial support for those looking after loved ones warning cuts to support services are leaving many nearing ‘breaking point’.

The Scottish Government said it “absolutely valued” the support provided by unpaid carers and is working with partner organisations to ensure they have the advice they need.

A spokesperson said: “We have asked NHS National Services Scotland to provide PPE stock to unpaid carers, as well as the regulated social care sector, during this emergency period.

“The hubs that have been set up in local communities will be providing PPE for unpaid carers that need it from next week.

“As most local carer services are unable to provide face to face support at present, the Scottish Government has established a £500,000 fund to help these organisations adapt to supporting carers remotely, and most are now offering alternatives such as telephone counselling and online sessions.”

The Scottish Government said emergency changes had been made to Carer’s Allowance to ensure those who cannot be in the “physical presence” of the person they look after can still receive the benefit.

The spokesperson added: “We also understand that carers may be under additional emotional pressure at the moment.

“The Mental Health Minister has announced a further £3.8m to increase the capacity of NHS 24’s telephone and online services, while a dedicated page on mental health support has been added to the NHS Inform website.

“Our new mental health and wellbeing campaign ‘Clear Your Head’ launched this week also provides practical advice on looking after mental wellbeing during the outbreak and coping with the current restrictions.”

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