Peer Support and training for Ethnic Minortiy Carers focused on Social Care
The Carers Learning Network is the new project from the Peer Support and Learning team. It is designed to support carers from ethnic minority backgrounds to gain understanding of social care (Self-Directed Support) and their rights when accessing social care in Scotland.
The project aims to create safe, supportive spaces where carers can share experiences, learn from one another, and feel empowered to make informed choices about care and support.
The key outcomes of the Carers Learning Network are to:
- Support carers from ethnic minority backgrounds to understand the Self-Directed Support (SDS) social care system in Scotland
- Increase awareness of carers’ rights, including relevant legislation and standards
- Create safe, welcoming spaces to share experiences and support one another as peers
- Address some of the barriers ethnic minority carers often face when accessing mainstream social care services, through a tailored and inclusive approach.
Participation consists of 2 sessions. The sessions will be 1 week apart. Below is a detailed description of what to expect in each session.
Session 1 - Social Care and rights based training
Part 1: SDS overview and Local Carer Support
- Provides an introduction to Self-Directed Support (SDS), including social care options, assessment processes, eligibility, and outcomes planning.
- Highlights the support available for carers locally.
Part 2: Social Care-Focused & Rights-Based Training
- This session will offer broader training on social care focussed on human rights in Scotland.
Session 2 – SDS Peer Support and Q&A
Part 1: Guided Peer Support Discussion
- Creating a safe space for sharing and learning from each other to build confidence
- Co-facilitated by LCiL Staff and trained peer facilitator volunteers with lived experience.
Part 2: Q&A and Future Planning
- This session will focus on individual support needs and how support can be offered moving forward.
- Answering questions related to SDS, and the training that has been provided.
- Provides opportunities for signposting and referrals for further support, and encourages peer-led discussions for participants at all stages of the SDS journey.
At each session, lunch will be provided. Information can be made avaialble in multiple formats or languages, and interpreters will be provided when needed. This is to enable carers to focus on building connections and engaging with the learning.
If you have ny questions relating to accessibility at our sessions, please see our FAQs here.
If you would like to sign up to our next available sessions, please complete the referral form below.
If you have any questions or want to discuss any of the project further, please feel free to reach out to the team at PSL@lothiancil.org.uk