Local
MP, Peter Viggers, today backed a call for a more support
for carers’ issues in Government issues. This is
in the light of findings of an ITV News investigation,
undertaken in conjunction with Carers UK, that found people
looking after sick or disabled relatives were still feeling
isolated and struggling to care without enough support.
As
a result of these striking findings, ITV News on Monday
6 February launched a campaign calling for the Government
to appoint a “Carers’ Czar” to champion
the rights of carers.
In
a recent document, the White Paper on health and social
care, Government pledged to review the National Strategy
for Carers, increase the amount of emergency respite care
and ensure that carers get better access to information.
Peter
said, “It is a real
concern that carers in my constituency may be struggling
both financially and in terms of their own well-being,
and even more worrying that they may not be receiving all
the help they are entitled to. Carers are the backbone
of community support in the UK, saving the economy a cost
equivalent to a second NHS service.
“These
findings highlight that these carers are not getting enough
help in this difficult and demanding role. It is vital
we give as much support from Government as we can to the
six million carers in the UK.
”I would urge all those
looking after a sick or frail loved one or relative to
check they are receiving all the support they are entitled
to by calling the CarersLine on 0808 808 7777.” |
