§ Mr. David YoungTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will outline the services available for carers now supporting elderly and disabled people in the community.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyThe provision of practical support for carers is the second of the key objectives identified in the White Paper "Caring for People". In meeting carers' needs, health and local authorities should consult carers about their wishes and needs, and ensure that services are available. The King's Fund's recent publication "Focus on Carers", a copy of which will be placed in the Library, funded by the Department, outlines the kinds of services which can be made available to support carers. It is for health and local authorities to decide what services should be provided in their areas depending upon local needs and circumstances.