Unpaid carers provide care and support to family members, friends and neighbours. The people they care for may be affected by disability, physical or mental ill-health, frailty or substance misuse. A carer does not need to be living with the person they care for.

One in seven of the UK workforce is juggling a caring role with full or part-time employment. This means many NHS Lothian staff have a caring role supporting a family member or friend; the Staff Carers Network has been created to give them a safe and confidential space to make connections and access support. Anyone who has a caring role for a family member or friend can join the network.

If you have a caring role and would like to join the confidential mailing list, email: Carers@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk. You will receive invitations to the network meetings and notes if you cannot attend.