Leech supports Caring for Older Carers

11.57.05pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 24th Oct 2006

Liberal Democrat MP for Manchester Withington, John Leech, is supporting a campaign by "IndependentAge" to reach out to older carers and raise awareness of the difficulties they face.

John Leech MP said:

"Older carers make a significant social and economic contribution; some are looking after family members or friends for more than 50 hours a week. Many do not even recognise themselves as carers and therefore they are not seeking the financial and practical assistance which they could be entitled to."

Nikki Hill, IndependentAge said:

"We are delighted to have the support of John Leech MP for our campaign. The Early Day Motion Reaching Out to Older Carers highlights the fact that given our ageing society there are likely to be increasing numbers of older carers. We need to identify people taking on caring responsibilities and better understand their needs so that they can receive the most appropriate assistance. Our research shows that low level practical support services can make all the difference to carers' ability to remain independent. We are calling on the Government to prioritise investment in this type of social care provision."

"If anyone provides unpaid help to an ill, frail or disabled family member or partner who could not manage without them then they are a carer. They could be entitled to financial help such as the Carers Allowance and practical support from social services. Carers have the right to an assessment to determine what help they need with caring."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. IndependentAge is a national charity that helps older people to live with independence and dignity in their later years. Its practical support enables older people to stay in their own homes for as long as possible and lead active and fulfilled lives. The charity concentrates its help on those who have contributed to improve the lives of others. Visit: www.independentage.org.uk

2. Older Carers in the UK: There are over 1.5 million people aged 60+ in the UK who provide unpaid care: almost 350,000 carers are aged 75 and over and more than 8,000 are 90+. (Carers UK) Visit: www.carersuk.org

3. IndependentAge and Carers UK have produced a joint information leaflet aimed at older carers. It details the practical support older carers could receive from IndependentAge as well as providing useful contacts for advice and information about carers' entitlements. For a copy of the leaflet call 020 7605 4200 or download a leaflet from IndependentAge's website: www.independentage.org.uk