Lothian has unveiled a bus specially branded in support of its newly announced Charity of Choice partner VOCAL (Voice of Carers Across Lothian).
The east Scotland operator is to promote the charity across some of its 70 services until the end of 2024.
Designed collaboratively by Lothian’s own design team and VOCAL, the side and rear of the bus will feature the message “Caring for a partner, relative or friend? We can support you.” Below this, contact details will encourage unpaid carers to seek support.
VOCAL assists more than 10,000 unpaid carers per year, helping them identify the issues affecting them and trying to achieve the best possible outcome.
Gaynor Marshall, Communications Director for Lothian, says: “Lothian is proud that our new charity partnership with VOCAL will help to raise awareness of unpaid carers.
“We are delighted to launch our charity bus, which will promote VOCAL’s message across Edinburgh and the Lothians and encourage those who might need support to contact the charity to find out what help is available for them.“
Rosemary McLoughlin, Chief Executive for VOCAL, adds: “If someone is supporting a partner, relative, child or friend, then they may not realise that they are a carer and can miss out on vital support.
“Connecting carers to practical, emotional and financial supports at an early stage can make a big difference.
“We are delighted, through our partnership with Lothian, to have a vehicle which will be seen in communities across Edinburgh and Lothian over the next two years, and will enable more carers to get the support they need.”
