What could make a positive difference to, or improve the life of, carers? That is the question Government is putting to the experts - carers.

A dedicated website www.newdealforcarers.org is launched today by Government as part of a major nationwide consultation exercise to engage carers in debate. Carers will be encouraged to post their ideas on the website around the issues that would make a difference for them. You can post a message, read what other people have said and say if you agree.  The site will be live until mid September.

As well as the online consultation hundreds of local events will also take place across the country over the next few months and Carers UK's members and local groups will be instrumental in gathering carers views. The Department of Health will also hold specific regional events to target local carers from as wide a range of caring backgrounds as possible.

Gordon  Brown, due to meet carers' groups, carers, volunteers and others at a reception in Downing Street, said:

"Carers are a remarkable group in society; a lifeline for the millions of people who rely on their compassion and dedication. We, as government, need to do more to listen to and learn from carers about how we can better provide the support they need and the recognition they deserve. I am delighted that this consultation will give every carer the opportunity to be heard, and to shape the vision for caring for the next decade."

Care Services Minister, Ivan Lewis said

"We respect and value carers, they do an amazing job. They are the hidden heroes in many of our communities. We want a New Deal for Carers which is shaped by the views and real life experiences of carers. Instead of a plan drawn up in Whitehall we want meetings in village halls, community centres and town halls in every part of the country to identify carers priorities.

"Our long term mission must be to offer carers a support system which is on their side and recognises they have a right to a life of their own. It is not Government's job to take over the responsibilities of the family but it is our duty to ensure they have access to high quality, sensitive support. As people live longer and disabled people have fuller lives the vast majority of people will find themselves in the role of a carer at some stage in their life.  The needs of carers are now relevant to the future of every family in our country."

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK said:

"Carers make an enormous contribution to society - worth a staggering £57 billion 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.  The benefits could be enormous to carers, their families and society as a whole. Carers' views really matter and their voices must be heard.  Carers UK warmly welcomes Gordon Brown's announcement today and we will do all we can to ensure that their voices are brought to the heart of Government through the golden opportunity that this consultation presents.  We've planned numerous events, online consultations, etc. to ensure that as many carers' views are gathered as possible."

The website based consultation at www.newdealforcarers.org asks what changes are needed on a wide range of topics, including:

-     Who do you want to value you as a carer and how?
-     What money issues are most important to you?
-     What could change to help you do things outside of caring eg. work, education, leisure
-     what about issues with transport?
-     Is there any training that you think would improve your life as a carer