New support services for carers

Support services for carers are to be overhauled in Northamptonshire after a study revealed one in 10 residents looked after someone else.

The county council's cabinet will next week look at support plans for carers ranging from young children to older people caring for relatives or friends.

A new carers' strategy points to a number of new services which could be introduced over the next three years.

Steps are to be taken to identify all carers and those who need support.

The new services were developed with carers and through a special event earlier this year aimed at identifying what extra support was needed.

Quality of life

Cabinet member for health and adult social services Rosemary Bromwich said: "Carers carry out such a vital role in today's society and in the lives of so many people.

"However despite this vitally important role often carers face many issues and problems.

"Many of these come from a fundamental lack of recognition of the role they play and how their caring role can impact their finances, career, health and quality of life.

"As a council it is vital we offer as much support as possible to these true saints in our communities and I am confident that this new strategy outlines how we will do exactly that."

The cabinet will discuss ways to improve the quality of life of carers.

They will look at how to reduce stress, promote good health, increase access to employment, training and leisure opportunities, ensure freedom from discrimination and ensure a fair income.