Importance Of Carers Must Be Recognised - Poots

Carers must be recognised for the vital role they play in ensuring people are cared for in their own homes and communities for as long as possible, Health Minister Edwin Poots has said.

The Minister was speaking as he attended the Patient Client Council's Conference 'Future Planning Project for Older Carers of Adults with a Learning Disability', which outlines progression on how future planning affects people's lives.

It follows a workshop last year regarding elderly carer's concerns about future planning for their children who have learning disabilities.

Speaking at the conference in the Pavilion Stormont, Mr Poots said: "The physical and emotional impact that caring can have on the well-being of individuals should not be underestimated. With an ageing population, carers will become older and we must ensure that they are properly supported to carry out their role without it negatively affecting their own health and wellbeing.

"Parents of children with learning disabilities worry what about will happen when they are no longer able to care for them. So it is vital that as carers become older, they are given reassurance and have peace of mind with regard to the future of their dependants."

The Minister continued: "Caring for the carer and planning for the future are therefore vitally important. We must develop new models of services for older carers and their families so they have the knowledge, resources and tools to plan for the future. We must also ensure that they are given practical help, including respite and short break care if needed.

"Making a difference to the lives of all in our society remains a firm priority for me. Transforming Your Care means more health and social care services will be provided in the community, therefore carers will play an increasingly important role in providing valuable services that complement those delivered by paid care services."

(MH/CD)