Scottish Government Advice for unpaid carers on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

19th March 2020

Anyone providing regular support to a vulnerable friend or relative will want to do what they can to protect their own health and the health of those they look after during the coronavirus outbreak.

Like everyone, unpaid carers (including young carers) and people being cared for should familiarise themselves with the public health advice on how to protect themselves from infection. As the situation is changing quickly, the guidance may also change, so carers should check regularly to make sure that they are following the latest guidance on coronavirus on the NHS inform website

Carers who do not already have an emergency plan in place may also want to talk with family and friends about who could take over their caring role if they become ill or need to self-isolate - particularly while social work services are under additional pressure during the coronavirus outbreak. It will also be important to make sure that you have key information about the person you care for easily available - so that anyone taking over their care has all the information they need.

Where carers and family and friends are unable to provide essential care for someone, they should contact their local social work department. See the social work department contact details

See NHS 24 for advice on coronavirus symptoms, precautions to take, and what to do if you think you may have become ill with coronavirus.