Today, the Government published an action plan aimed at improving support for carers in England.

Responding to the publication, Caroline Abrahams, Co-Chair of the Care and Support Alliance and Charity Director at Age UK said:

“It’s good news that the Government has launched its action plan for carers but we are disappointed that there was no hint of increased financial support for them. It’s wrong that many people who care 24/7 end up using all their savings or going into debt to make ends meet, all because the money they are entitled to is so minimal – way below the minimum wage.

Carers also need a reliable, high quality social care system that backs up their efforts & means they can get some time way to rest & recharge. The forthcoming Government consultation on social care (Green Paper) must give carers and care users real hope that things will change and for the better & quickly, and that means a big increase in State investment as well as policy reform.”

For media enquiries, please contact Liz Fairweather on 0203 033 1718 or at Liz.Fairweather@ageuk.org.uk