Weekly Update: Carer Positive in the Highlands and Islands

This week we were joined by employers from the Highlands and Islands for another of our virtual workshops. This workshop was attended by representatives from new employers interested in the Carer Positive scheme and awards, as well as organisations such as Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Befrienders Highland, Birchwood Highland and NHS Highland who have already achieved Carer Positive awards from us.

The event went really well with a Sue kicking off with a short presentation on the value of creating a Carer Positive workplace, including updated figures showing the effect of the Coronavirus pandemic on working carers. We also had insights from some of our Carer Positive employers discussing the progress they had made in their own organisations and plans to strengthen this going forward. These events are also always a fantastic opportunity for attendees to network, discussing the challenges they experience and seeking advice from each other on how best to tackle these issues.

We were also thrilled to present NHS Highland with their Established level award at the end of the session, highlighting the progress and innovative ideas they have crafted in the workplace for staff members with caring responsibilities. Well done to the Carer Services Development Officer, Jennifer Campbell, and all of the team there for all of their hard work.

Finally, Carers UK has joined forces with Virgin Media to combat loneliness among carers. The partnership which launched this week will last until the end of 2025 and utilise technology and innovation to join carers to their communities and to each other. Find out more on the Carers UK website.