MP WELCOMES NEW SUPPORT FOR CARERS

12.00.00pm GMT Tue 27th Feb 2007

Paul Keetch MP today welcomed the country-wide consultation and new Government measures to improve support and services for carers.

There are nearly 560,000 carers in the West Midlands providing unpaid care, looking after an ill, frail or disabled family member, friend or partner.

Gordon Brown, the Chancellor, today announced the launch of a country-wide consultation with carers and voluntary organisations to update the 1999 Carers Strategy. Ivan Lewis, Minister for Care Services, is making available £33m in an initiative known as the New Deal for Carers.

Under the new deal for carers, local authorities in England will be allocated a share of £25 million to provide emergency support. A further £3 million will be spent on a national advice and information service, and £5 million will be spent on a training programme for carers.

Paul Keetch MP said, "I am delighted that Government has recognised the contribution that carers make to society and has allocated additional funding to support them. Herefordshire will receive a share of the £25 million to provide emergency support, which will give carers peace of mind and ensure that they look after their own health and wellbeing. The nationwide consultation on the new Carers Strategy will ensure that carers' voices are heard at the heart of Government."

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:

"Carers UK has high hopes for the Government's latest measures for carers. This is a golden opportunity to deliver real change for carers in the West Midlands."