Protecting Carers' rights to breaks

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On Carers Rights Day, we reflect on the vital role unpaid carers play in our society and the rights they deserve to maintain their health, well-being, and quality of life. One of the most important of these rights is access to meaningful short breaks, which provide carers with the time to rest, recharge, and balance their caring responsibilities with other aspects of their lives. 

However, the Scottish Government's plans to enshrine this right in legislation are under serious threat. Rising costs, diminishing income and increased demand are placing immense strain on the short breaks sector, and the continuing delays to the National Care Service Bill - where the Right to Breaks is embedded - create uncertainty about when, or even if, this vital right will be fully realised. 

The government’s commitment to introducing a Right to Breaks for unpaid carers represents a significant step forward in recognising and supporting carers’ rights. However, the sustainability of this promise relies heavily on the existence of a robust and well-supported short breaks sector. Without urgent action to address the financial viability of these services, the Right to Breaks risks becoming a right in name only. 

We welcome the Scottish Government’s efforts to raise concerns about the proposed National Insurance increase with the UK Government, highlighting the disproportionate financial impact this decision is having on charitable organisations, including those providing short breaks. We also support the SCVO campaign calling for an exemption for charities to help alleviate the financial pressures on essential services.

While this decision is ultimately a UK Government responsibility, the Scottish Government must also take proactive steps to support the short breaks sector. This means introducing targeted financial support for providers, offsetting rising costs, and offering strategic assistance to ensure the sector’s sustainability.  

Additionally, it is crucial that all political parties overcome their differences to ensure that the Right to Breaks is not indefinitely delayed by the ongoing hold-up of the National Care Service Bill. Regardless of the future of the broader National Care Service legislation, cross-party support is essential to progress this critical aspect of the Bill and ensure unpaid carers are not left waiting any longer for the support they need and deserve. 

On this Carers Rights Day, we therefore urge the Scottish Government and politicians across all parties to prioritise unpaid carers by committing to fast-tracking the implementation of the Right to Breaks and ensuring sustained investment in the providers essential to delivering this support.