Help for the Helpers

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 30th Apr 2005

People who care for a family member or friend who is chronically sick, disabled or suffers from mental health problems are to receive greater support from Milton Keynes Council.

The Liberal Democrat Council currently offers support for unpaid carers who are looking after a friend or family member. But under a new action plan approved by the Cabinet, a study will be carried out this year to find out the needs of unpaid carers in Milton Keynes. The action plan has been produced in response to the Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act 2004, which is being implemented nationwide from 1 April 2005.

The Council will also be trying to find out who and where the so-called "hidden" carers are who provide support but have not come to the Council's attention. Census information indicates that one in 10 of the population are carers nationally, but in Milton Keynes the figure is one in 12.

The aim is to make sure that unpaid carers know that they are entitled to an assessment of their own needs as well as the needs of the person they are caring for.

Councillor Irene Henderson, Liberal Democrat Cabinet Member for Social Care said: "Carers do an amazing job without being paid. The Council recognises and values the contribution they make. Without their input, the Council and the NHS simply could not manage. There would be a huge cost to the tax-payer to deliver the care that carers provide.

"But carers need support to enable them to continue to care, and it is important to their well-being that they have a life of their own. The Council will be extending the support we offer, for example to help carers to take up opportunities to work or study, and to take time out and enjoy leisure activities."