Scotland's unpaid carers: Stories of care

Over 700,000 people in Scotland provide unpaid care for at least one person in their lives. A recent report from the Young Academy of Scotland places carers’ voices at the centre of its findings, highlighting both the realities of being an unpaid carer and the urgent need for access to better support systems.

In this Curious workshop, we’ll start with readings from and share the real-life experiences featured in the report. We’ll also hear from invited attendees who have offered to share their own personal stories and experiences as an unpaid carer.

These stories are an insight into the realities of being an unpaid carer today, plus the social and emotional impact the role can have on people and their families. This workshop will also have time for a reflective group discussion where attendees can talk about current support systems and hopes for the future.

As part of the workshop, we would like to write and design our own postcards thanking Scotland’s unpaid carers. We would love for attendees to take part and leave a note of thanks if they wish!
While it’s not compulsory, everyone is welcome to share their own stories if they feel comfortable doing so. No prior caring experience is required for coming along to the workshop – if you’re simply interested in hearing more about unpaid care in Scotland, then please join us!

Note for attendees: This workshop includes readings of real-life stories from carers across Scotland. Attendees might find that the discussions provoke some strong emotions or relate to personal experiences. Attendees are not obliged to share their own experiences, but are willing to do so if they feel comfortable.

Important points to note

• This event is suitable for age 16+
• Event format: This event is a workshop and may involve some audience interaction. This could involve group activities, individual activities, quizzes or hands-on activities.

• Content warning: This workshop includes readings of real-life stories from carers across Scotland. Attendees might find that the discussions provoke some strong emotions or relate to personal experiences. Attendees are not obliged to share their own experiences, but are willing to do so if they feel comfortable.

• Filming: Photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed.

SPEAKER

Senior Lecturer in Psychology, University of the West of Scotland

Joanne is a psychologist exploring links between wellbeing and cognition. She has a personal interest in how unpaid care, and degenerative disease, shapes our language and thinking. Joanne is Chair of the UWS Staff Carers Network.

SPEAKER

Research Fellow in Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health; University of Glasgow

Josie’s interests include hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, vascular cognitive impairment, and small vessel disease. She is a representative for Alzheimer’s Research UK. And is passionate about creating and promoting opportunities for the empowerment of women in science.

SPEAKER

Head of Department of Marketing, Tourism, and Sport; Atlantic Technological University

Gary is a professor with a multidisciplinary background including exploring how festivals can become more accessible for people living with dementia. Gary is passionate about evidence-based policy and has authored two research reports for MSPs.

SPEAKER

Principal Research Fellow, Computer and Information Sciences; University of Strathclyde

Kieran is an interdisciplinary researcher bridging the disciplines of public health, digital health, and innovation. Kieran co-designs innovations for pertinent health issues (e.g., dementia). He wants our societies to move beyond inequalities, to see all individuals enjoy a good quality of life.

About the Curious festival

The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 5 − Sunday 13 September 2026!

Curious is Scotland’s annual festival of knowledge. Across its seven-year history, Curious has welcomed over 10,000 attendees into its yearly programme of talks, workshops, discussions and exhibitions – all covering different topics and subject areas. There’s no need for you to have any prior specialist knowledge before coming along, just bring your curious self! With plenty of events both in person and online, you can take part from anywhere.

You can check out the full programme of events here.

Accessibility

We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact [email protected]. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website.

• Step-free access: Ramped access for visitors is available via 26 George Street through Lakeland. Upon arrival, please call 0131 240 5000 and a member of staff will meet you and guide you to the event. Please note that the entrance ramp has a steep gradient (1:12).
• Main lift: The lift’s door has a width of 79cm and a depth of 143cm. Please note, that access to the lift is limited by a narrow 77cm width corridor. You can find further details and images of the lift on our website.

• Wheelchair spaces: If you would like to book a space as a wheelchair user, please select the ticket type 'wheelchair space ticket' during the booking process. If this is sold out, please contact the Curious team on [email protected].

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