Carer Support Services

The Orkney Carers' Charter

Orkney values its carers, and believes they have the right to be supported and respected, both in their caring role and as individuals, recognising them as the expert on the person they care for.

Who Are Our Carers?

Anyone, young or old, who provides unpaid support to a partner, family member, or friend living with physical or mental disability, illness, or frailty.

What You Can Expect as a Carer in Orkney

• We'll try to identify you as a carer as early as possible
• You'll have choice and control over your caring role, with support tailored to you
• You'll be recognised as the expert on your cared-for person's needs
• You won't be left isolated or alone in your role
• We'll support your health and wellbeing
• Wherever possible, we'll help you continue your education or employment alongside caring

Our Commitment

Orkney Health and Care, NHS Orkney, Orkney Islands Council, and our third sector partners will work together to provide the best possible support for all carers.

Adult Carer Support Plans (ACSPs)

What is an ACSP?

Under the Carers Act 2016, every carer is entitled to an Adult Carer Support Plan. You're a carer if you support a family member or friend, in your home or theirs, and are 18 or over (if you're under 18, see our Young Carers page).

An ACSP is a written record of a conversation with your support worker about your caring role, your goals, and what matters to you. It can help identify what you enjoy outside caring, what support you might need to keep doing it, and what other professionals, such as medical staff, can offer, while making sure you're never asked to do anything you're not comfortable with.

What Does an ACSP Cover?

Every ACSP in Scotland must cover:

• Personal circumstances: your life, who you live with, what you enjoy, and your typical day
• Personal outcomes: your goals or hopes, such as spending more time with family or feeling more supported at work
• Identified needs: what you need to achieve those goals, which you and your support worker will work out together

If your needs meet Orkney's eligibility criteria, we must provide support to meet them; your support worker can explain these criteria and whether you qualify. We'll also discuss whether a short break would help, which could be anything from cinema tickets to sports equipment or a holiday, tailored to what works for you and what's possible at the time.

You don't have to discuss anything you'd rather not.

Why This Conversation Helps

It ensures your views are heard about your caring role, and helps support services understand what advice, information, and support you need, including whether you want to continue caring.

You might be asked things like:

• What does a normal day or week look like for you?
• What matters most to you?
• What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
• What's difficult about being a carer?
• How does caring affect your day-to-day life?
• What support do you and your family currently receive?
• Do you feel listened to?
• What help might you need at home?

Do I Have to Complete an ACSP?

No, it's entirely optional. If you decide not to now, you can request one at any time in the future.

Who Do I Speak To?

Contact Crossroads, who provide carer support services in Orkney on behalf of Orkney Islands Council. You can also contact us directly and ask for the Duty Social Worker.

What Happens With My ACSP?

You'll receive a copy of your completed plan, and it's entirely up to you who you choose to share it with.