The deadline for implementing the first phase of commitments outlined in the national strategy for carers is in 2011.
Published in 2008, the strategy – Carers at the Heart of the 21st Century Families and Communities, provides a framework for responding to the growing demands placed on carers and the care system.
It sets out a vision for elevating carers as equal partners in the provision of services, and provides a plan of action for health and social care providers to make this happen.
Currently one in 10 people in Britain is a carer: most are women, and 6,000 people take on new caring responsibilities each day.
With more people living longer, many are developing long term clinical conditions, and most want to maintain control over their lives and independence in their own homes; requiring greater support from carers.
An initial budget of £255 million has been allocated to implement the strategy, including £150 million for planned short breaks for carers, £38 million to help carers enter or re-enter the job market, and £6 million for improving support for young carers.
Commitments include:
· expanding NHS services to support carers
· improving emotional support
· ensuring young carers are protected from inappropriate caring
· training carers to strengthen their role
· training public sector professionals to provide better services and support
· ensuring third sector support is available to carers
· providing better information about carers.
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