Alzheimer's Society: Strategy is a good start
Tuesday, 10 Jun 2008 13:42
The Alzheimer's Society has welcomed the government's carers' strategy, describing it as a "good start" to resolve problems faced by carers.
Neil Hunt, the charity's chief executive, said the £150 million investment in respite care is "very good news" that could give "thousands of carers the invaluable opportunity to recharge their batteries and access crucial support".
"However, it's important that this new money is used for short breaks and not only given to people when they reach crisis point," he warned.
"It's also not just about putting someone in a care home for a week, we need to get creative and provide support that fits people's individual needs."
Mr Hunt claimed that the strategy "fails to address the huge financial burden of caring that is forcing thousands into poverty".
"Carers of people with dementia are amongst the hardest hit by the current charging system," he explained.
"We need a new national settlement on who pays for care that removes the disproportionate burden carried by carers of people with long term conditions."