Strategy Highlights Support for Carers in Dundee

A revised carers strategy sets out long-term plans for supporting unpaid carers in Dundee. 

The Children and Families Committee will hear that the Dundee Carers Strategy 2026–2032 aims to create a caring Dundee in which all unpaid carers are heard, valued, understood, and able to have a life of their own alongside their caring responsibilities. 

The renewed strategy has already been approved by the Dundee Integration Joint Board (IJB) in February 2026. The committee is being asked to request annual updates on the delivery of the strategy, specifically related to young carers. 

The five core principles of this strategy are that: 

• Carers are identified 

• Carers are supported and empowered to manage their caring role 

• Carers are enabled to have a life outside of caring 

• Carers are fully engaged in the planning and shaping of services 

• Carers are free from disadvantage or discrimination related to their caring role 

• Carers are recognised and valued as equal partners in care 

   

   

  Key priorities include improving support for young carers and reducing barriers to support. It builds on the commitments made in ‘A Caring Dundee 2’, which saw improvements in the identification, assessment and support for carers of all ages. 

The positive impact of 'A Caring Dundee 2', is already being seen, with young carers highlighting the benefits of being part of a young carers group and speaking with others who share the same experience. 

An S6 pupil said: "Getting support from Young Carers in school through groups and 1:1 session gives me the opportunity to talk to other young carers who understand the challenges we can face. It helps me see that there are others experiencing some of the same difficulties." 

An S3 pupil attends a weekly Young Carers group at school where pupils take part in games and activities. She said: "This gives me time to relax and chill and forget about my caring 

responsibilities for a while. It’s always good fun. Knowing I have this support time every week helps me focus on my learning in class."

Another S3 pupil benefiting from support for young carers said: "It’s reassuring that if I need anything or have any questions about being a young carer, there is someone there who understands. It’s something less to worry about, which helps me focus on my lessons." 

Children and Families Convener Councillor Stewart Hunter said: "The new carers strategy sets out our commitment to working in partnership with carers. This strategy builds upon the progress already made in identifying our young carers and getting support for them, and I’m glad to see this work continue in the strategy. 

"I know a lot of work is already taking place across our schools, carers centre and The Corner to improve positive outcomes for young carers and to provide support they need as they balance their caring responsibilities with school and friendships."