​Carers Week this year (8th - 14th June 2020) is going to be very different to other years but probably more important than ever. The theme is "Making Carers Visible". We want carers to be visible to and valued by not just the Scottish Government but also friends, family, the workplace, places we visit and society in general.
It is going to be difficult to celebrate and promote the role of the unpaid carers in Fife this year given that restrictions will still be in place to some degree so please help us to think of a way to do something that "Makes Carers Visible" in a special way.

Samaritans are a well established charity supporting people who are struggling with life and need someone to talk to. They're waiting for your call. Call them for free on 116 123
Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you.They're here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. https://www.samaritans.org/?nation=scotland

​If you are worried about someone who may be experiencing thoughts of suicide and want to help them take a look at the online training tool publishes by Zero Suicide Alliance - you'll find it here https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/training it takes about 20 minutes to complete. They have two different types of awareness training, which provide a better understanding of the signs to look out for and the skills required to approach someone who is struggling:

Fife Carers is planning to offer a short mindfulness course via Zoom in the coming weeks to help combat the Stress that cares are experiencing during the pandemic.
This is a great opportunity to learn some valuable self-care skills and meet and talk with other carers who are isolated at this difficult time.
If you are interested in joining us, please contact our Advocacy Worker, Wilson Macduff and he will get in touch. with information and details email him directly on wilson.macduff@fifecarers.co.uk

The Scottish Government are seeking your thoughts and ideas about the decisions we have to make about heading out of the Coronavirus Covid-19 restrictions. You've got until 10pm on the 11th May to add your thoughts. Follow the link below to take you to the government document to make sure you post your comments on the government page for it. You can comment on this post bu whilst It's interesting for people to read your thoughts they will not be collated by the Scottish Government research and collaboration teams.
https://www.ideas.gov.scot/covid-19-a-framework-for-decisio…

Cosy Kingdom can support people to stay warm and manage their energy bills during this difficult period.
Their energy advisors are currently operating a telephone advice service, offering support on billing and supplier issues, switching and gas and electricity debt, as well as advice on keeping on top of energy use.
They can also make home visits to provide emergency top ups for people who have run out of gas or electric and are struggling financially. These will be safe and secure, without having to enter the participants home. More information will be provided once the appointment has been made.
Theirr energy advisors can be contacted by:
· Calling 01592 807930 (Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00pm - please leave a message outside these hours)
· Texting COSY then YOUR NAME to 88440
· Emailing info@cosykingdom.org.uk
· Through the online form: https://www.cosykingdom.org.uk/book-a-home-visit/
Their energy advisors can be contacted by:media pages

​The government are constantly reviewing and updating information to support individuals and businesses.  You can check to find the latest information by following this link:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-for-those-affected-by-covid-19/support-for-those-affected-by-covid-19