Moray’s unpaid carers have been promised that they will be listened to and supported by the council.
Members of Moray Integration Joint Board approved a new draft strategy at a meeting this week.
They agreed the plan should go for consultation in January.
The final strategy is expected to launch in April next year.
Its three strategic priorities are to recognise the work unpaid carers do, value them and give support.
Over the next few years, the strategy aims to give carers quick access to information and advice, help them know their rights and for them to be part of service planning.
16,200 unpaid carers in Moray
Carers will also be supported to look after their own wellbeing, be able to have regular breaks and maintain the education or employment they want.
The strategy covers adult and children who look after family members or friends.
According to Health and Social Care Moray, there are around 16,200 unpaid carers in the area.
Their representative on the board Ivan Augustus told the meeting unpaid carers faced the same issues as the sector’s paid workforce.
He said: “I think we should be talking about the world of unpaid carers and the pressures they’re facing.
“Some of that is absolutely heartbreaking. I think it’s one of those elephants in the room.
“The important thing with this strategy is to raise awareness within the board.
“I don’t want this to be something we pat ourselves on the back with and then put on a shelf and leave.”
It is thought 60% of people will take on carer responsibilities at some point in their lives.
‘Elephant in the room’
In Scotland the value of unpaid carers is estimated at over £36 billion a year.
Board member Sandy Riddell said: “We’ve been speaking about the needs of carers for decades.
“To see this six years after IJBs were launched, it’s a pity it didn’t come sooner.”
While welcoming the draft strategy, he called for a clear delivery plan to be set out.
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