NHS Borders is the first NHS Board in Scotland to receive the Carer Positive award

NHS Borders is the first Scottish territorial Health Board to be recognised for its commitment to supporting employees who are carers and has been awarded the Scottish Government’s ‘Carer Positive’ Engaged kitemark. 

Earlier today NHS Borders Chairman, John Raine, accepted the award on behalf of NHS Borders who have demonstrated that they are an employer who provide a working environment where carers are valued and supported.

A carer is defined as someone who looks after an ill, frail or disabled family member, friend or partner.  In Scotland it is estimated that around one in seven workers are juggling work and caring, with the number of carers across the UK forecast to increase by around 50% over the next 20 years.

NHS Borders provides a range of work-life balance policies and proactive support for people who are carers. This includes flexible working schemes and special leave policies as well as practical support through the occupational health service and links to voluntary sector support.

John Raine said: “I am delighted to receive this award from Carers Scotland on behalf of NHS Borders.  NHS Borders has set a great example by becoming the first Scottish territorial Health Board to receive this award. I know that those involved are extremely proud of this achievement.

“The demands placed on carers can be extremely challenging and statistics show that as many as one in five carers give up work due to their caring responsibilities. Ensuring there is a supportive environment in the workplace can make the difference to carers remaining in work, benefitting them, their families, and us as an employer.”

Carers Scotland’s Senior Policy Officer, Sue McLintock presented the certificate and said: “NHS Borders is to be congratulated on becoming the first territorial health board in Scotland be recognised as a Carer Positive employer.  It is committed to supporting staff through workplace policies and practical support which will benefit the health and wellbeing of employees who are carers and rightly deserves to receive this award today. 

“We hope this achievement by NHS Borders will encourage more health boards in Scotland to look at the support they provide for employees who are carers and become recognised as Carer Positive.”

To find out more about Carer Positive and what employers can do to achieve this award visit www.carerpositive.org