The effectiveness and efficiency of health and social care in Rochdale is the focus of a three-year strategy launched to coincide with National Carers Week 2013.
The plan, developed in partnership with carers, the Council, NHS and Rochdale Carers Association, intends to improve services for carers and enhance the quality of life for people they care for.
It is estimated that there are more than 23,000 carers in Rochdale, each thought to save the local economy more than £18,000 a year.
Colin Lambert, leader of Rochdale Council, who spoke at the launch, said: “We must care for our carers, and I urge people across the borough in a caring role to reach out to The Carers’ Resource for support.”
The Carers’ Resource provides carers with access to free training and education to help improve the quality of care they provide, as well as offering free, regular personalised breaks.
Cllr Lambert told carers: “We value the role you all play in providing unpaid help and support to loved ones.
“Reduced levels of caring by carers could be catastrophic to health and social care budgets.”
National Carers Week 2013 runs until Sunday.
It is a UK-wide annual awareness campaign that aims to improve the lives of carers and the people they care for.
Councillor Jean Hornby, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, had a message for carers at the launch.
“It’s pertinent during Carers Week to say a huge thank you to you all,” she said.
“In my eyes you’re all brilliant and we could not do without you.
“I very much welcome this joint strategy that pledges on-going support for you all.”
The Joint Carers’ Strategy is available to view online at www.rochdale.gov.uk in the policies and plans section.
To contact The Carers’ Resource call 01706 925808 or for online advice visit www.rochdale.gov.uk/carers.
Picture courtesy of Mike DelGaudio, with thanks.
For more on this story and many others, follow Mancunian Matters on Twitter and Facebook.
