Government launches carers consultation

The Department of Health has announced the details of a consultation on providing a new deal for carers nationwide, with a website set up as part of these efforts in order to foster debate on the role and future of those involved in care.

Included on the website are questions relating to money concerns, external factors, transport and training, in addition to an exploration on who in society values carers and through what means.

Furthermore, the government has announced the availability of one million pounds worth of funding for national groups involved in partnership working efforts to provide enhanced support for carers.

Imelda Redmond, chief executive of Carers UK, said: “Carers make an enormous contribution to society – worth a staggering 57 billion pounds every year – and yet many suffer poor health, financial difficulties, give up work to care and face social isolation.

“This strategy gives carers a once-in-a-decade opportunity to get the right policies to support them.”

She added that there could be significant benefits for carers, their families and wider society as a result of this consultation, with a number of events and online discussions planned to capitalise on this chance for change.

In October 2006, a survey of carers revealed that many older people in the UK are having their chronic pain management needs neglected.