New legislation will ensure carers in the Western Isles are given a greater say about the support given to them.
The Carers Bill, passed last week by the Scottish Parliament, will grant carers the right to request an assessment of their need for support and entitle them to consultation over hospital discharge.
Local authorities will be required to provide information and advice to carers as well as publishing local carer strategies.
The Scottish Government has invested nearly £123 million in support programmes for carers, including funding for short breaks and for health boards to provide direct support. However, local councils have concerns about over the costs of implementing the plans.
MSP Alasdair Allan welcomed the development.
Mr Allan said: "It is clear to me from meeting groups like Western Isles Carers, Users and Supporters Network that the needs of carers should continue to be at the forefront of our minds when the government makes policy.
"Indeed, Nicola Sturgeon’s first meeting as First Minister was with carers – demonstrating that carers will always be a top priority for the SNP in government."
Mr Allan added: “The measures contained in the bill will help give carers the support they deserve and enshrine carers’ rights in law for the first time – moves welcomed by carers groups across Scotland.
"The bill also ensure that carers across the isles are able to have a life alongside caring – as well as supporting them as they continue to provide care.
“We owe unpaid carers an enormous debt of gratitude and this bill helps to recognise the enormous contribution that carers make to their families and to the country as a whole.”
Labour MSP Rhoda Grant said there were concerns the legislation would not deliver on its promises due to "woefully inadequate" funding with local authorities already embarking on cost cutting drives across all council services.
Scottish Parliament backs legislation to strength rights of carers
9 February 2016