OLDER CARERS NEED OUR CARE

Paul Holmes is supporting Independent Age's campaign to reach out to older carers and raise awareness of the difficulties they face. Paul said:

"Older carers make a significant social and economic contribution; some are looking after family members or friends for more than 50 hours a week.

Many do not recognise themselves as carers and therefore they are not seeking the financial and practical assistance which they could be entitled to.

I have signed EDM 2657 calling for greater support for older carers who are often left isolated from financial and practical assistance.

I strongly support Independent Age, Carers UK and the Princess Royal Trust for Carers in their work to identify and support older carers."

Nikki Hill, of Independent Age said:

"We are delighted to have the support of Paul Holmes MP for our campaign. The Early Day Motion Supporting Older Carers highlights the fact that given our ageing society there are likely to be increasing numbers of older carers.

"We need to identify people taking on caring responsibilities and better understand their needs so that they can receive the most appropriate assistance. Our research shows that low level practical support services can make all the difference to carers' ability to remain independent. We are calling on the Government to prioritise investment in this type of social care provision.

"If anyone provides unpaid help to an ill, frail or disabled family member or partner who could not manage without them then they are a carer. They could be entitled to financial help such as the Carers Allowance and practical support from social services. Carers have the right to an assessment to determine what help they need with caring."