Born in 1946 and brought up in Cupar, Fife, I was educated at the local school - 
“I am delighted that this event has been arranged and I am pleased to be taking part. Carers deserve our recognition for the work which they do and there will be a range of agencies present on the day to provide advice and assistance to ensure that carers are getting all the help which is rightfully theirs.
“Many people don’t get the support they need because they don’t recognise the caring role they have. If you regularly provide or intend to provide care, you need to find out about the help available. The benefits system is complicated and finding out what you are entitled to can be difficult. Claiming benefits usually involves filling out forms. Try not to let this put you off. A local Independent Citizens' Advice Bureau, disability organisation or an Age Concern branch should be able to help you with the forms. The Pension Service (Freephone: 0800 99 1234) should also be able to help you with more information about benefits and completing the claim forms.
“Remember, even if you’re not entitled to claim benefits there is a range of other ways in which you get help with being a carer, such as equipment, practical help and getting access to a break.”
