Statement: The carers strategy
10 June 2008
FROM: Bob Reitemeier, The Children's Society Chief Executive and member of The New Deal For Carers Steering Group (Children’s Representative)
“Today’s announcement brings some hope to Britain’s 175,000 young carers. The Children’s Society welcomes the findings. Many young carers undertake excessive caring duties, especially in families where parental substance misuse or mental health problems are prevalent. This Strategy recognises that whole family support is needed to ease the responsibility they face.
“Young Carers have told us through our work with them that support for their whole family would greatly reduce the need for them to care and we are pleased to see that their views are reflected in the Strategy.
“The Children’s Society continues to deliver training, funded by the DCSF, in partnership with The Princess Royal Trust for Carers to the statutory and voluntary sectors on whole family practice and welcomes the recognition for the ongoing need to raise awareness with and training for professionals working in this arena.”
Ends
Media enquiries and further comment: Anil Ranchod, The Children’s Society Media Office, Tel: 0207 841 4422 / 0798 567 1013
Notes to editors:
• The Children's Society is a national charity driven by the belief that every child deserves a good childhood. To that end it provides vital help and understanding for those children who face the greatest danger, discrimination or disadvantage; children who are unable to find the support they need anywhere else. www.childrenssociety.org.uk/youngcarers