Shared Care Scotland is a Scottish charity which promotes and supports the development of short break services (also known as respite care) for the benefit of carers and the people they care for. In Scotland there are an estimated 759,000 people (16+) who care for a family member, partner or friend, who may be ill, disabled, or dependent on drugs or alcohol. There are an estimated 29,000 young carers in similar roles. Getting the right break at the right time is an important priority for many carers. Short breaks help keep families together and can contribute to the health and well-being of everyone in the caring relationship. They also help people with care needs to maintain or make new relationships, learn new skills and be included in their community.