Support renewed for unpaid carers across the county

UNPAID carers across Leicestershire are set to continue receiving support from Voluntary Action South Leicestershire (VASL), after the county council renewed its contract.

The authority’s Support for Carers service, which aims to ensure unpaid carers are identified and supported to enable them to care effectively, will be provided via the charity over the next two years.

The service works to promote early intervention and prevention solutions to carers in order for them to feel recognised, valued and supported, helping them sustain their independence and increase their confidence in order to continue to care.

Councillor Richard Blunt, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “The renewal of this contract with VASL offers the opportunity to build on the excellent support services provided under the previous contract and strengthen our partnership.

“Every carer in Leicestershire deserves recognition for their unpaid caring role and should be encouraged to complete an online carers assessment to find out what support they may be entitled to. Leicestershire’s Support for Carers service is key to reaching out to those carers across the county who may be unaware of the advice and support available to them.”

VASL manager Maureen O’Malley said: “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the county council. Our service is here to inform and support carers in all communities, to improve carers’ quality of life, promote their health and well-being and to encourage them to make real choices about their lives.”

Leicestershire’s Carers Support Service is free and includes:

■ A telephone advice line

■ Carers support groups

■ A telephone befriending service

■ Carers top tips

To find out more about these and other services available visit www.supportforcarers.org, call 01858 468 543 or email maureen@supportforcarers.org

To complete an online carers assessment form and for further information visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/lookingafter-someone