Coalition plans will ensure breaks for carers in Bath Foster

The Coalition Government has announced plans to make sure carers are able to get a break.

Last year, Liberal Democrat Care Minister, Paul Burstow announced an extra £400m for Primary Care Trusts to allow carers to take a well-earned break, but a recent study has found that many PCTs are not spending this money on carers.

The Coalition Government has now announced a new framework to ensure that by September next year, the local NHS must have plans in place to support carers and must publish these plans.

Commenting, Don Foster, MP for Bath said:

“In difficult times Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing and making sure we help those who need it most.

“The new framework will make life a little bit easier for carers in Bath who are some of the most unsung heroes we have.

“This is a manifesto commitment that the Liberal Democrats are delivering in the Coalition Government.”

Locally, the move was welcomed by Carers Centre Bath and North East Somerset who offer support to carers across the region. The service provides the latest information and advice on issues such as carers’ rights, assessments, respite, breaks, aids and adaptations, benefits and lifelong learning.

Cllr Simon Allen, cabinet Member for Wellbeing added:

“Carers are very often the unsung heroes of our communities providing support for those that need it most. It is the right thing that publicly accountable plans are published to ensure that carers receive the support they deserve and in Bath and North East Somerset we will be doing just that!”

Commenting, David Harris, Operational Manager of Carers Centre B&NES said:

“This is welcome news as having a break is essential in maintaining the quality of the carers own life and ensures they are able to maintain their caring role.

“That’s why the Carers’ Centre Bath and North East Somerset offers information and advice on breaks to the 16,000 carers who live in the area.”

Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Care Minister, Paul Burstow said:

“We know that most people who need care would prefer for it to be provided by a loved one and that personal touch can make the world of difference to their lives.

“Family carers contribute billions of pounds to the economy with the amount of care and support they give, driven by nothing but a selfless desire to help those they love, reducing the need for local authorities and the NHS to step in.

“It is only right we try and reward those carers with a few days off here and there, or a short break away, to alleviate them of the day-to-day pressure that comes with caring.

“That is why we have asked the NHS to work closer than ever before with local authorities, to pool their money, to agree plans and to make sure carers get the break they all deserve.”