Moves to boost quality of life for borough's carers

5.53.10pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 27th Aug 2007

A new strategy geared to improving the quality of life, health and well-being of the estimated 15,000 people in the borough who offer unpaid care and support to their sick or disabled relatives, friends or neighbours, is set to be unveiled by Richmond Council.

The strategy represents a strengthening of the partnership between carers and organisations including the Council, The Richmond Carers Centre, the Richmond and Twickenham Primary Care Trust (PCT) and other key voluntary sector groups. It aims to reach out to more carers as well as provide more information on services and people's entitlements. Ensuring better respite support and more counselling and advocacy help are also among the aims.

Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing, Cllr Denise Carr, said: "Carers play a crucial role in our communities, helping friends and relatives stay independent in their own home. The strategy underlines the commitment of the Council and other key agencies in helping to improve services for all the carers in our borough. It reflects the strong partnerships with local health services and voluntary groups to make sure we achieve this goal."