NHS 10-year plan relies on unpaid carers - now the Government must properly support them

Responding to the publication of the Government's 10-year plan for the NHS, Carers Trust's CEO, Kirsty McHugh, said: 

“Bringing the NHS closer to the community makes a lot of sense if it’s carried out effectively. Unpaid carers already provide care in the community, so this plan needs to strengthen those connections.

"We’re pleased to see a commitment to including unpaid carers and patients in care planning – something Carers Trust has long been calling for.

"But if this plan is to work and truly deliver its transformative potential, unpaid carers and local carer services will be needed more than ever.

"Cutting waiting lists, getting patients out of hospital more quickly and helping people stay at home all rely on the 6 million people in the UK who care for family and friends.

"If its ambitious goals are to be achieved, the Government must recognise the vital role of carers and local carer services by ensuring they’re properly supported.”