I recognise, and pay tribute to, the valuable contribution made by carers of all kinds - residential, domiciliary, paid, unpaid - many of whom spend a significant proportion of their life providing support to family members, friends and neighbours. You undoubtedly make help make the world a better place.
I was proud to stand on a manifesto with a specific commitment to support unpaid carers through reforms and encouraged by the substantial progress made during the last Parliament. The previous Conservative Government supported the implementation of improved rights for carers, enshrined in the Care Act 2014 meaning carers can receive support through the Carer Element in Universal Credit and through Pension Credit with the Carer's Allowance having been increased to £69.70 per week.
The Carer’s Leave Act has also been introduced to give unpaid carers the right to take unpaid leave from work to care for older, disabled or seriously ill relatives. In addition, in 2023/24, £327 million of funding was earmarked to provide short breaks and respite services for carers, as well as additional advice and support.
I fully acknowledge that there is far more that can be done in improving conditions for carers and unpaid carers. Having cared for both my parents, I completely agree that carers must receive the right support to help them carry out their caring roles. A tenth of adults in the UK currently provide unpaid care for a friend or family member, and these people should be supported in the invaluable work they do.
I will closely consider all proposals put forward by the new Government, as it is important we get this right.
You may also be interested in this statement: Social Care | Mims Davies
