Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if she will make an assessment of the need for a National Carers Strategy, to support unpaid carers to stay in paid work and have access to adequate breaks and support services, whilst continuing with their caring role.
We are supporting for the hon. Member for North East Fife’s (Wendy Chamberlain MP) Private Members’ Bill, which would introduce a new entitlement to one week of Carer’s Leave for all employees providing care for a dependant with a long-term care need. Funding for respite and short breaks for carers is also included in the National Health Service contribution to the Better Care Fund (BCF). In 2022/23, £291.7 million from the BCF will provide short breaks and respite services and advice and support for carers under the Care Act.