Carers in the north-east are to be given short breaks, spa treatments, leisure passes, dining experiences and a range of other rewards for the vital work they do under a new scheme.
A pilot Respitality project has been launched in Aberdeenshire, driven by the council and the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership.
A new project worker has been tasked with building links with local businesses keen to participate.
The scheme has already secured four three-month gym memberships at Energie Fitness in Inverurie as the first donation.
Aberdeenshire Council’s Gillian Owen, who is chairwoman of the education and children’s services committee, said: “We recognise that any carer needs breathing space and our approach is about enabling that, particularly when we’re talking about young carers who also have their education and personal and social development to think about.
“Support comes in many forms and we hope that this Respitality project will inspire local businesses to lend a hand in offering some much-needed VIP treatment.”
A Young Carer Strategy was introduced by the council in 2018, setting out a number of ambitious plans to make a difference, including the pilot project.
A young carer is anyone aged under 18 who helps to look after or support a member of their family who has a disability, illness, or drug, alcohol or mental health problem.