VOCAL offers carers free monthly appointments with an independent advisor, to support them to write and register a Power of Attorney document. This free service should replace the need to visit a solicitor. For more details contact 0131 622 6666 or email centre@vocal.org.uk.
Mental health
Worried about someone?
If you are a relative, partner or friend, your worry may have been triggered off by some change in the person you are concerned about. In depression there may be visible changes in a person’s behaviour, appearance, mood, attitudes, conversation and activity. For more information about mental health and how you can support someone with mental health issues visit the Breathing Space website.
The Mental Health Act 2003
The Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 outlines the rights of carers supporting someone who uses mental health services. For more information download the publication 'Rights of Carers' or visit the Mental Welfare Commission website.
The Act defines a carers as:
an individual (other than a paid or voluntary worker) who provides, on a regular basis, a substantial amount of care for, and support to, the person; and includes, in the case where the person is in hospital, an individual who, before the person was admitted to hospital, provided on a regular basis, a substantial amount of care for, and support to, the person
Support in Edinburgh and Lothians
Edinburgh Carers Council
Provides advocacy, information and learning opportunities to carers supporting someone who uses mental health services in Edinburgh. Visit Edinburgh Carers Council website for more information.
Support in Mind - Edinburgh Carer Support Project
Provides support to carers, families and friends of people with a serious mental illness. Practical advice, emotional support, information and contact with other carers can be provided.Visit Support in Mind - Edinburgh Carer Support Project website for more information.
Edspace and Midspace
Access comprehensive service directories of mental health services in Edinburgh and the Lothians, as well as factsheets on a range of mental health difficulities. Visit: Edspace (Edinburgh) and Midspace (Midlothian).
Scottish Recovery Network
The Scottish Recovery Network raises awareness of recovery from mental health problems, shares experiences and information and influences support for people with mental health issues. For more information visit the Scottish Recovery Network website
