I have created a petition on change.org campaigning for free/concessionary travel for carers that I would appreciate you getting behind and showing your support.
I was a Carer from a Young Age to a family member who suffered a long fight with Early Onset Dementia from the age of 48, Epilepsy, Diabetes and many other conditions. I am also part of my local carers centre and have met many carers of all ages that all have had a huge impact on their lives from Caring. This is why I feel so strongly about this issue and have heard how much this simple change would help so many.
The proposal is that the government take the initiative to offer free/ concessionary transport for carers to allow them to better care. This could be possible either through adapting the concession and companion card which currently allows the carer to travel with the cared for but not separately which in most cases is needed or through some form of add on to carers allowance for those in receipt of it. Though preferably carers wouldn’t need to be in receipt of carers allowance as not every carer who could benefit from this travel are.
My petition has currently reached over 3400 signatures and is being backed by my local council’s petition board (Renfrewshire Council), in lobbying the Scottish Government to provide free/concessionary transport for unpaid carers.
Some other supporters of my petition include; Alzheimers Scotland, Dementia Friends Scotland, Downs Heart Group, Women For Independence, The coalition of carers, Carers UK, Carers Trust Scotland , ME Association, Enable Scotland and many MSP’s.
Any support you show would be truly appreciated.
The link below directs you to my petition. I would truly appreciate your signature and if you could encourage others by sharing it on your social media pages.
https://www.change.org/p/concessionary-transport-for-all-carers-they-require-your-help
Kind regards
Amanda macdonald
