Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire last week hosted its first Commitment to Carers event, a day focusing on supporting unpaid carers who dedicate themselves to caring for a loved one.
This gathering brought together carers, care providers, and stakeholders in a spirit of collaboration to explore how their invaluable contributions can be further supported.
The event gave carers and health and social care staff the opportunity to engage in discussions, share experiences, gain crucial insights and consider what further supports could be put in place.
The day offered a poignant reminder of the pivotal role caregivers play across North Lanarkshire’s communities. This was enhanced by discussions around the current Carer Strategy's impact and areas where it can be enhanced and refined.
Maria Williamson, Senior Manager, Quality Assurance, Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire, said: "The Commitment to Carers event was a powerful testament to the strength and compassion of North Lanarkshire’s carers.
“We’re very grateful to all who participated, lending their voices, experiences, and support to this event. Personal narratives, filled with both challenges and triumphs, were generously shared, illuminating the remarkable resilience that carers embody.
“Our commitment to carers is ongoing and we’re committed to continue engaging with carers to collaboratively produce a new Carer Strategy attuned to the needs and aspirations of our community.
“In the coming weeks, we will engage with Carers, community members, and stakeholders through various channels, including surveys, focus groups, and community forums. Through this collective effort, we aim to create a strategy that authentically addresses the challenges and opportunities faced by carers in North Lanarkshire.”