The first ever dedicated carers’ centre is soon to open in Perth.
PKAVS carers’ hub is set to open the dedicated hub on Lewis Place to help meet the increasing demand for support from unpaid carers.
The centre will include a day centre, a place for respite care, and a sensory garden.
A carers’ telephone service, which was launched last year by the charity, will also operate out of the facility.
Paul Graham, chief executive of PKAVS, said: “We are very pleased to be able to open this dedicated centre that will benefit the thousands of hard-working unpaid carers throughout Perth and Kinross.
“The role of carers is often overlooked, and it is only right they are given all the support possible to help them manage their caring role.
“Located on Lewis Place, the centre will address the unprecedented increase in demand for unpaid carers support.
“Over the last two years alone, PKAVS has seen a 96 per cent increase in unpaid carers seeking help, with the services being delivered at record levels.
“The carers’ centre will provide vital support, including opportunities for carers of all ages to meet with experienced support workers, a day centre in which the ‘cared for’ can spend the day enjoying stimulating and engaging activities while carers get a well-earned break, and facilities for young carers to relax and spend time with others their age, gaining valuable respite from their caring role, as well as getting support to help them with their schoolwork and academic achievement.
“The centre will also include an enjoyable sensory garden, areas for complimentary therapies, and a base for our vital carers telephone service, which since its launch in 2018, makes over 500 calls to carers every month, offering a friendly listening ear and providing helpful advice to help them to manage their caring role.”
He added: “We are grateful for the support of our partners, Perth and Kinross Council, the Big Lottery, The Gannochy Trust, and others who have helped make this exciting new carers centre possible.”
