Milton Keynes City Council is planning to create a new service that will make it easier for unpaid carers to get help and support.
Unpaid carers provide regular care for a friend or family member that cannot cope without their help. This may be due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction. The city council estimates that there could be 21,000 unpaid carers in MK, including many young carers.
Currently, support is available to carers via a variety of sources, some funded by the city council and some independently. The new service will bring together all available support for unpaid carers of all ages living in Milton Keynes. This will include information, advice and guidance as well as how to access crisis support and respite services.
A decision to invest more than £2.29m over five years will be made on 30 July and if approved, the new service would launch in 2025.
“Carers play a vital role in the local health and care system providing incredible support to those unable to support themselves. Not only that, but without these dedicated individuals, our local health services would be under even greater pressure. Whether local carers are looking for respite, financial or wellbeing support, we want to make the process of getting help easier. This investment in our carers is critical to ensure they can continue in their caring roles.”
The City Council provides a minimum annual payment of £240 for unpaid carers alongside access to additional assistance that will vary for individuals. For further information on the support available to unpaid carers, please visit our Carers Assessment webpage.