23.11.22

A consultation seeking the views of unpaid carers about respite support available to them as they carry out their vital role was launched in Cardiff yesterday.

Cabinet Member for Social Services (Adult Services), Cllr Norma Mackie launched the consultation at an event at Grand Avenue Day Centre, Ely attended by people who access services there and their families, representatives from the Council and Cardiff and Regional Partnership Board and members of the city's Carers Impact Group.

The consultation aims to capture information about the current provision for unpaid carers and how things can be improved to support them. It supports the priority outlined in Welsh Government's Strategy for Unpaid Carers that all unpaid carers must have the opportunity to take breaks from their caring role to enable them to maintain their own health and well-being and have a life alongside caring.

Respite allows carers to have a break from their caring responsibilities and routines and can take many forms including sport, leisure, cultural activities, pursuing education, going away on holiday, replacement care and overnight sitting services. It can take place either with or without the person being cared for.

Cllr Mackie said: "Unpaid Carers play an essential role in our communities so it is crucial that they can access support to enable them to continue to care.

"If you look after a relative or friend by helping them with their daily activities and needs, please take part in the survey which will help us understand how we can better support you."

As well as gathering views of unpaid carers in the city, the Council is also keen to hear from organisations that provide respite services and those that signpost to services for unpaid carers.

The information provided in the consultation will enable the Council to map and understand more about respite options available in the city and any barriers that prevent carers from taking a break from their caring responsibilities.

The online consultation is available here www.cardiff.gov.uk/carerssurvey and will be open until January 8, 2023. Paper copies of the survey are also available in hubs and libraries, GP surgeries and other community locations.