Bob SpinyTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what further assistance and sources of advice he intends to provide for carers; and if he will make a statement. [189072]
1750WS
§ Dr. LadymanThis Government are the first ever to recognise the contribution and concerns of carers. It developed the national carers' strategy in 1999 with carers and the organisations that represent them.
The carers grant was introduced in 1999 to support councils in providing breaks and services for carers in England. The grant has been increased annually and has provided an extra £325 million over the last five years. It is worth £125 million this year and will continue at least until 2005–06, by which time it will be £185 million.
The Carers (Equal Opportunities) Act received Royal Assent on 22 July 2004. The Act will ensure that carers are able to take up opportunities which those without caring responsibilities take for granted.
The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister launched the Beacon Council scheme on 7 July 2004. Supporting carers is one of the themes for the forthcoming round.
To support carers' access to information the Department is funding Carers UK to provide advice and information in a variety of formats.