Janet Finch-Saunders AM has called on the Welsh Government to improve access to good quality, flexible respite for carers, and for better data collection to ensure all carers receive full and proper needs assessments from local authorities.

The Member took part in the Welsh Conservatives’ debate in the Chamber of the National Assembly for Wales in Cardiff Bay.

Janet said:

“Here in Wales we have the highest proportion of unpaid carers in the UK – over 370,000, of whom 90,000 are over the age of 65. Being a carer involves incredible levels of dedication, patience and commitment, and – sadly – can often take a toll on health and well-being.

“Access to flexible and good quality respite care is essential – and this doesn’t have to mean for a week or a weekend – it could be as simple a having an hour free to go to the bank, the shops, or for a coffee and catch up with friends.

“The Welsh Government previously committed a £3m fund for local authorities to provide respite care, but we have seen little evidence of progress in this regard. I have called on the Cabinet Secretary to make clear how this is being allocated and spent, so that proper scrutiny of the effectiveness of this funding can take place.”

ENDS