North Yorkshire Council consultation on strategy to enhance support for unpaid carers
Plan focuses on improving carers' recognition
North Yorkshire Council is considering a comprehensive approach to support approximately 54,000 unpaid carers in the county, spanning all ages from children to pensioners.
The 'all-age carers' strategy aims to ensure carers are valued and heard, and is informed by discussions with carers regarding their personal experiences.
Cllr Michael Harrison, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for health and adult services, highlighted the impact of the strategy:
“The reality of caring is deeply meaningful but also tough, lonely, and challenging. By understanding carers’ daily lives, we can offer personalised support to help them lead ordinary, fulfilling lives.”
The strategy is intended to replace the current Caring for Carers plan and focuses on four priorities: accessible support services, health and wellness for carers, better identification of carers, and personalised support backed by evidence.
Elizabeth McPherson, CEO of Carers Plus Yorkshire, stressed the need for earlier recognition of carers:
“Many people don’t even recognize themselves as carers until they reach a crisis point. This strategy is vital to ensure carers are heard and properly supported.”
The council aims to work collaboratively across various services to ensure carers are efficiently identified and supported. The strategy intends to streamline information access and provide opportunities for carers to take breaks and connect with others.
A public consultation is now open, inviting feedback from carers, professionals, and residents.
Cllr Harrison further commented:
“Improving early support allows more carers to recognize their roles sooner and receive help before reaching crisis points. Ongoing collaboration will continue to shape services meaningfully.”
For more details and access to the strategy report, visit the North Yorkshire Council website.