Caring in the community takes many forms, and is supported by a wide variety of local groups, charities and businesses.
With recent changes to welfare benefits, proposed changes in Scotland to the social care system and an increasing push for people to be looked after in their own homes and community, this knowledge and support is ever more important.
Borders Asperger and Autism Support Group has teamed up with law firm Morisons and solicitor Emma Horne, herself from the Borders, to help people understand some of the changes in the pipeline.
At two free legal advice clinics Emma will provide free private consultations on a wide range of subjects.
Volunteers are often at the core of caring in the community, and nowhere is this more obvious than with the people who dedicate much of their time to helping people when they feel most vulnerable.
Answering more than 220,000 calls a year, more than 1,000 volunteers with The Samaritans in Scotland provide invaluable 24-hour confidential emotional support to people experiencing distress, despair or suicidal thoughts.
Of course local care providers offer services for a wide range of people, young and old.
Grange Hall Care Home at Drygrange is set in one of the most beautiful parts of the Borders. Currently rated ‘very good’ in three areas and ‘excellent’ in the fourth, the home provides care for up to 49 residents, who can enjoy the stunning grounds and views from the former private home.
At the other end of the caring services age group, Playstation One in Melrose’s Palma Place also offers the highest quality care.
Offering children a stimulating, safe, educational and safe environment, the nursery is a popular choice for many local families. Caring for yourself is equally as important as others caring for your younger or older relatives.
And in Hawick Vision Dental offer a wide range of services using the finest quality materials and products to keep your teeth in sparkling order, or tackle an issue you may have.
With personalised care and impressive attention to detail, the firm provides a level of dental care which is hard to beat.
And for those of you who spend a lot of time on your feet, it is important you take care of them too, something Linda Sinclair can help with.
Based in the centre of St Boswells, Linda is registered with the Health Professionals Council and has acquired a broad range of skills through her experience of working in the NHS and private sector.
As well as her fully equipped clinic, Linda can also make home visits to take care of whatever issues you may have with your feet.