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Unpaid Carers
03 September 2024
Lead MP
Wendy Chamberlain
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Social Care
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Wendy Chamberlain raised concerns about unpaid carers in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The MP emphasised the critical role of unpaid carers in society and their economic value, noting that they are vital to our economy and social fabric. She highlighted the growing number of unpaid carers due to degenerative conditions and the need for better identification of these carers. Wendy Chamberlain also stressed the financial struggles faced by unpaid carers, including food insecurity and reliance on benefits such as carer’s allowance. She proposed a cross-Government strategy to address the multifaceted issues impacting unpaid carers across health, work, education, and leisure.
Tom Gordon
Con
Harrogate and Knaresborough
Underlined the importance of a cross-Government approach to support unpaid carers.
Andrew Gwynne
Lab
Gorton and Denton
Acknowledged the need for a new care strategy under Labour's future government, highlighting their commitment to this issue.
Government Response
The Minister thanked Wendy Chamberlain for securing the debate and acknowledged the critical role of unpaid carers in society. He committed to reviewing the implementation of carer’s leave and examining paid carer’s leave, while also addressing challenges faced by unpaid carers in balancing work and care responsibilities. The Government pledged to consider how best to support unpaid carers within a renewed vision for adult social care, focusing on national standards tailored to local needs. They recognised the need for cross-Government working and committed to engaging with unpaid carers, sector partners like Carers UK, and other Departments to ensure their voices are heard in building a sustainable care service.
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Assessment & feedback
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.