By George December 2004

Text Box: PERTH YOUNG CARERS STRONG BACKING FOR selfless youngsters Club Council approves funding FOR PROMOTIONAL FILM

Text Box: “There could be up to 3000 youngsters across Perth & Kinross who have literally given up their childhood to care for someone they love. Surely we can help share the load.” The words of President Maureen in raising the issue of Perth Young Carers at council last week will strike a chord with most members who heard Gordon Connachie and Stewart McFarlane speak last month. A Young Carer is someone aged 5-18 with some role in caring for an adult. The adult may be physically disabled, have alcohol or drug dependency, or have mental health problems. A strong feature of a Young Carer is the secrecy that goes with the

Text Box: The monthly Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Perth St Johns

Text Box: President Maureen has reminded members that both the Club Council and Business Meetings are one week later than usual. She explained to BG “The 10 days between the Club Council and Business meetings works well and I didn’t wish to change that. However, the idea of holding the Council meeting on 3 January was just too horrific to contemplate. Most of them wouldn’t be able to bite their fingernails—and that’s the sober ones. Bearing in mind the threat of a coup by a coven of current and previous high officials, I didn’t want to risk the situation being inflamed through them having consumed 2 bottles of alcopops.”

Text Box: turf. Privacy, family loyalty and a perceived social stigma combine to keep this heart rending situation under wraps for most. It is estimated that only 12% of Young Carers are known. On the face of it, the situation facing the Young Carer Project in Perth & Kinross is daunting to say the least. Last year, it cost £66000 to provide some support for 45 Young Carers. There are another 18 on the waiting list. Perth & Kinross Council provide £18000 each year. The funding only allows for one full time member of staff and one part time. What can Perth St Johns do to help? As much as we like—it’s all a matter of priority. Another full time member of staff would allow twice as many youngsters to get support, although it would still only scratch the surface. Club Council have

Theatre Outing	2
The Trip of a Lifetime. Stuart Cameron on the Rotary Curling Tour	2
How’s Your Rotaphobia?..... DG John	3
Directory Amendments	3
The Tom Kitching Diaries	4
District Council Meeting 21 Nov. by John Fyfe	5
Council Roundup 6 Dec	6
Xmas Crackers	7
Spotlight on ….. John Fox	7
Dates for YOUR Diary	8
Events Diary	8
Speakers Corner	8

Text Box: By George