'Important step' - South Tyneside 'unpaid carer' boost after new action plan launch
Unpaid carers of South Tyneside set for boost after new action plan launched.
South Tyneside’s one-in-10 unpaid carers are set for a boost under a new national action plan being given qualified backing by a borough support service.
Connected Caring South Tyneside described the cross-department framework as “an important step” – but said talk must be matched by practical steps.
Earlier this year, it revealed it had witnessed a significant rise in the number of people seeking advice, guidance and practical support while caring for loved ones.
New action plan published last week
Under the action plan, published last week, their work will be better recognised, access to help services made easier and extra backing given to help them reach their potential in other areas of life.
It has been compiled and published after the hardships associated with unpaid caring became increasingly highlighted by charities and support groups.
Its main measures include unpaid carers being more clearly involved in care planning and getting improved referrals to the right support
A new information page for them will be established over the coming weeks on the government’s GOV.UK website.
That will provide clear guidance around health, social care, employment and benefits in one place for the first time.
There will also be a published ‘carers’ charter’ which will set out carers’ rights and entitlements
And the government says it will also require employers with more than 250 staff to improve their support for unpaid carers from early next year.
Aims to help carers continue their careers
That provision aims to help carers to continue in their careers while carrying out their other responsibilities.
Importantly, young carers will be identified quicker and be better supported so they can stay in education without falling behind at school.
Connected Caring South Tyneside supports unpaid carers aged 18 and over and has said many of those seeking help are retirees left looking after elderly relatives.
Of the government’s plans, team leader Monica Scott said: “Connected Caring South Tyneside welcomes the Government's recognition of the vital contribution made by unpaid carers and its commitment to identifying and supporting them earlier.
“This is an important step towards ensuring carers are seen, valued and connected with the help they need before they reach crisis point.
“Recognition alone, however, must be matched by practical action.
“Earlier identification only delivers real change if carers can quickly access personalised information, local services, emotional support and digital tools that help them navigate their caring journey with confidence.
“At Connected Caring, we see every day how timely, coordinated support can improve outcomes for carers, the people they care for and the wider health and care system.
“We look forward to working with partners across health, social care and the voluntary sector to help turn this positive commitment into meaningful, lasting support for carers across South Tyneside.”
An estimated 14,882 adults – around one in 10 of South Tyneside's population – provide unpaid care.
There are believed to be around 1,500 young carers.
In all, the government’s action plan identifies 42 steps to be implemented.
Stephen Kinnock MP, Minister of State for Care, said unpaid carers make an extraordinary contribution in communities.
He added: “Our action plan is addressing some of these challenges and is focused on helping carers reach their potential in education or work.”