Cash boost to help the city’s ‘unsung heroes’
£1.5M INVESTMENT IN NEW ADVICE SERVICE FOR CARE WORKERS
CARERS in Manchester will be offered more support after town hall bosses agreed a £1.5m investment in a new advice service.
The cash will also go towards improving the reach and effectiveness of information, advice and support services for unwaged carers.
From April next year, a new first step point of contact for carers will be created by Manchester Carers Network, and a single telephone contact number will direct carers to practical advice, information and support across Manchester.
The council – alongside Manchester Health and Care Commissioning – agreed to the cash injection to help the city’s ‘unsung heroes.’
They hope that the new service will also help to reduce the social isolation experienced by many carers.
It will give them the chance to link up with Neighbourhood Carer Support Groups, which provide peer support and social opportunities.
Individuals can also be referred to a special team of Carer’s Care Managers for support with more complex needs. There are an estimated 60,000 carers in Manchester, providing care for up to 50 hours per week – often balanced with other commitments.
Coun Bev Craig, executive member for adult services, health and wellbeing, said: “Carers play an essential role in every community across the city with the day-to-day care of many Manchester people carried out by family, friends and too often young family members.
“We know that many carers do it because they love the person involved, and we want to make sure they get the support they deserve.
“We know that there are lots of services already out there, and this cash boost will allow a one-stop shop to better co-ordinate them. This investment in services is a recognition of the critical support they provide in helping to look after loved ones or neighbours in their own homes, allowing them to be as independent as possible.
“It is important that there is the right level of support and help for them too so that they can look after their own health and wellbeing. “This new service sits alongside other improvements in services and the Greater Manchester Carers Charter which we are championing across the city.”
Lynne Stafford, chair of Manchester Carers Network, recently co-ordinated a consultation with carers and professionals to review current care support service in Manchester.
She said: “There is a greater need than ever before to fight for carers’ rights and ensure they are getting the support they need. The recent NHS survey found carers are now receiving less support than ever both financially and practically.”
Carers play an essential role in every community across the city
Coun Bev Craig, adult services, health and wellbeing