In the latest instalment of his column, Michael McEwan calls for people and policymakers to take notice of the challenges facing carers and listen to what they have to say – and not only during their annual national week of recognition.

It's some time away but so important to highlight Carers Week from 5th-11th June.

This is an annual campaign to raise awareness of those who care selflessly for loved ones, and the struggles that unpaid carers face. It’s a day to recognise the contribution they make to families and communities both nationally and internationally.

The campaign is brought to life by thousands of individuals and organisations who come together to provide support to carers.

Every minute of every day, unpaid carers need help and support. Carers are finding it increasingly difficult and are often taken for granted. There is much more to do. When a carer is ill, authorities need to support them and those they look after; mental health, not just physical health, can be affected.

Carers play a vital role. We all know someone who is a carer, whether they are a family member, parent, partner, friend or someone in their community. They need to be especially commended at this difficult time, due to the cost of living crisis.

The Scottish government estimates that there are around 800,000 unpaid carers in Scotland.  During the pandemic, this figure rose to 1.1 million unpaid carers. Some of these are people who have given up their work to look after a loved one.

It's important to be there for someone and listen to them. Part of my work as a campaigner includes that. The government should listen more to the real life stories of carers, instead of just ignoring them. Carers need to have a voice and we need to show them more respect, and let their lived experience tailor structures of support.

Unpaid carers have first-hand experience, but guidance from them is often missing at times when it comes to talking to social work and government agencies. They're generally unprepared to become a full-time carer, and the additional responsibilities this adds. Carers can be very young and miss out on education and social interaction.

The cynic in me predicts we may still be discussing this in another five or 10 years, particularly as the population is living longer.

Michael McEwan is a freelance journalist.

Read more from Michael: New year, same fight for disabled rights; Work for disabled people still a barrier;  We still have to fight for our rights;  Young people finding their voice;

The views of columnists and people who write other guest insights articles are their own.

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