Source · Select Committees · Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee
Recommendation 30
30
Accepted
The Government claims “the money is there” to support carers’ breaks, but the evidence we...
Recommendation
The Government claims “the money is there” to support carers’ breaks, but the evidence we received is that not enough carers are getting a break. There are many carers who have not had a break since the start of the pandemic. Providing intimate care, under pressure, for such a prolonged period, is bound to have an impact on a person’s mental and physical health. It is imperative that the Government announce additional ringfenced funding to enable more carers to take a break this year. (Paragraph 129) Long-term funding of adult social care 79
Government Response Summary
The government claims to already support carers through the Care Act 2014, the Better Care Fund, and an investment of up to £25 million for unpaid carers, stating the 2023-25 BCF framework will improve spend clarity.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Our 10-year white paper reform vision puts people at the centre of adult social care and aims to make sure that those who draw on care and support as well as unpaid carers have the choice, control and support they need to live independent lives; can access outstanding quality and tailored care and support; and find adult social care fair and accessible. We recognise the vital role that unpaid carers play in our communities, and we all owe them a debt of gratitude. The Care Act 2014 requires local authorities to deliver a wide range of sustainable high-quality care and support services, including support for unpaid carers. Local authorities are required to undertake a Carer’s Assessment for any unpaid carer who appears to have a need for support and to meet their eligible needs on request from the carer. Since 2015, the Better Care Fund (BCF) has enabled local NHS services and local government to jointly invest in a range of preventative services, including supporting unpaid carers. In 2022–23, £291.7 million of BCF funding has been earmarked to provide short breaks and respite services for carers, as well as additional advice and support for carers. The 2023–25 BCF Policy Framework and Planning Requirements will be published in spring 2023, and we will look to improve the clarity and transparency of spend on unpaid carers through BCF reporting requirements and activity data. As our Next Steps to Put People at the Heart of Care plan confirmed, we will also be investing up to an additional £25 million for unpaid carers, in line with the funding commitment in the white paper. Further detail will be set out in due course. In addition,