Burstow welcomes new support for carers

12.00.00am GMT Wed 21st Feb 2007

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

There are over 600,000 carers in London 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.

Mr Burstow is meeting with local carers and councillors to discuss how best to use the extra resources.

Paul Burstow MP said,

"Above all we need to help carers financially and find ways of helping them to have a life beyond caring."

"I am delighted that Government has recognised the contribution that carers make to society and has allocated additional funding to support them."

"Sutton Council will receive £85 thousand 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 London."