Press release: NHS Confederation responds to Carers strategy

10 Jun 2008

Jo Webber, deputy director of policy at the NHS Confederation which represents NHS organisations and independent healthcare providers says:

"The NHS Confederation recognises the huge contribution made by the 6 million unpaid carers in the UK, who provide the lion's share of support in looking after those with chronic and long term diseases. We welcome this report which acknowledges that in some cases carers need further support in carrying out this invaluable role.

"The government's approach in piloting initiatives such as annual health checks and extra support from general practice is appreciated, at is it important to make sure that the NHS is providing services that really work for and benefit carers."

"The introduction of a helpline and website should make a real difference in providing more accessible information for carers, and we're pleased that carers will be offered extra training to help them in their role and funding for emergency care cover.

"The emphasis on young carers is also welcome to ensure that young people are not caring inappropriately and are offered the necessary emotional support."

ENDS

 

Notes for editors

1. The NHS Confederation represents more than 95% of the organisations that make up the NHS. Its members include the majority of NHS acute trusts, ambulance trusts, foundation trusts, mental health trusts, primary care trusts, special health authorities and strategic health authorities in England; trusts and local health boards in Wales; and health and social service trusts and boards in Northern Ireland.

Contact details

Contact Niall Smith 020 7074 3304 or 07767 770309, Ruth Kennedy 020 7074 3312 or 07884 47 3086, or Ruby Casey-Knight 020 7074 3306 or 07881 957305.  For out of hours media enquiries, please call the Duty Press Officer on 07880 500726.

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