Carers tell Prime Minister “it’s time to deliver”

The Prime Minister met around 60 carers and heard their views on the issues that affect them, including benefits, access to health and social care services, support to remain in work and discrimination against carers.

The event was chaired by Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK, who said:

“In February 2007 the Prime Minister launched the review of the National Carers Strategy, to be informed by the biggest ever consultation with carers. Over the last year both Carers UK and the Government have consulted thousands of carers about their priorities for change. In particular they have told us that they need better financial support and better recognition of their contribution to society.   

“This important consultation comes at a time when the Government is reviewing the whole system of social care. The National Carers Strategy and the Green Paper on long term care go hand-in-hand. The social care system needs to be radically overhauled, with a greater recognition of the central role that carers play in providing care to elderly and disabled people.

“People are increasingly aware of the impact of demographic change and the Prime Minister is clearly taking a keen interest in carers and the care system. It is a critical time for carers and their families. They have been ignored for too long. We need a strategy that delivers real change for carers and concrete improvements to their lives.”  

You can hear Gordon Brown's speech by visiting here

For further information:

Kate Groucutt 07505 184262 or kate.groucutt@carersuk.org

Patricia Orr 020 7592 1980/07889 140 139 or pat@thirdsectorpr.co.uk

Notes to editors

1. Spokespeople are available – contact the numbers above. Photos of the event are also available.

2. Carers UK is the leading campaigning, policy and information organisation of and for carers. Carers UK continues to make a difference to carers' lives by: campaigning for a better deal for carers; informing carers of their rights and what help is available; training and advising professionals who work with carers; working across the UK through its membership and networks of branches and affiliates. For more information, visit www.carersuk.org or for advice on your caring situation call CarersLine on T. 0808 808 7777.

 The Government announced the New Deal for Carers on 21st February 2007 when Gordon Brown visited the home of carer Jill Pay. Since then the Department of Health and Carers UK have consulted carers online and at events around the country.

• Information about Carers UK’s consultation events, more...
  
• Information about the New Deal for Carers and the Government’s consultation. more...