A local unpaid carer and member of The Carers’ Centre advisory group, ‘Carer’s Voice’ was at the launch of the Big Conversation on social care reform yesterday.
Sophie has been an unpaid carer of her son, who has multiple disabilities, for many years, and is a passionate advocate for the rights and needs of unpaid carers.
Senior politicians including Andy Burnham, Yvette Cooper and Angela Rayner, met Sophie and representatives of the Carers Trust at the launch, as the government sets out a bold push for a National Care Service.
Sophie said, "As someone who is passionate about improving the lives of unpaid carers, and keen to see real, tangible improvements to the system, I was thrilled to hear first-hand the positive changes Andy Burnham and his government are planning to make to social care. In looking to deliver a service that will support carers, those they care for and the NHS overall, the government is recognising the need to involve both the public and the other major parties in its development and rollout. Collaboration is so important. The delivery of meaningful, adequate support for carers is long overdue."
Jacqui Orchard, Chief Executive Officer of The Carers’ Centre, said: “It is so important that unpaid carers are part of this national conversation on social care. Most of us will care for a friend or family member, or be cared for ourselves, at some time in our lives. It can be the most rewarding thing we do, but so many carers experience isolation, stress, ill-health and serious money worries. It is time that proper support is given to address an issue that is affecting all of us.”
The Carers’ Centre offers a wide range of free support for carers of all ages and at all stages in their caring journey, including peer support, free wellbeing activities and a Freephone helpline. Most importantly, a community of carers, who understand the highs and the challenges of looking after a friend or family member.
Residents of BaNES who would like to find out more about the support The Carers’ Centre offers, are invited to visit the website, banescarerscentre.org.uk