Are we a Scotland that cares?

We all need to be cared for at some point in our lives – as children, when we’re older, or due to additional support needs. In fact, care is crucial to every part of our society and the economy that serves it.

Our collective wellbeing depends on care.

Find out more about the campaign, read our handy explainer here.

Right now, those who provide care are often under-valued and under-rewarded.

Too many carers face deep personal and financial costs, including poverty.

Women – who provide the majority of care – are affected most. After the huge impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, the cost of living crisis – with rising energy, food and fuel bills – has created yet more pressures.

A range of actions have been taken, or are planned, in Scotland, with the potential to create positive change. But progress remains too slow and too shallow.

Those who rely on or provide care are paying the price.

What we're calling for

Scotland must commit to fully valuing and investing in care and all those who provide it – whether paid or unpaid.

Right now, the Scottish Government has 11 National Outcomes, which it says describe the kind of Scotland it aims to create. Yet within these, care is almost invisible. That can’t be right – and it needs to change.

We want the Scottish Government to create a dedicated National Outcome on Care, and then ensure it drives the new action that’s needed to fully value and invest in care right across Scotland. We want every MSP to back this.

Led by

A unique collaboration of organisations has come together to create and lead this campaign, supported by research carried out by academics at the University of the West of Scotland through the UWS-Oxfam Partnership.

Supported by

If you would like to know more about the campaign, or you represent an organisation who would like to join, you can also contact us at scotland@oxfam.org.uk.