The Government has introduced an emergency draft Bill to help the NHS and local authorities better tackle the Coronavirus.

Through this Bill, the Government will reduce the need for local authorities to carry out needs assessments of unpaid carers and those needing care. It will also reduce the number of carer support plans, and care and support plans for those in need, through this legislation.

The Government has said the measures in the Coronavirus Bill are temporary, proportionate to the threat, will only be used when strictly necessary and will be in place for as long as required to respond to the situation.

Responding, Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:

“We recognise these are temporary measures which should help local services better deal with Coronavirus - but it is essential that councils continue to assess the risks and vulnerabilities affecting carers and the people they support.

“Unpaid carers will be under huge stress currently, taking extra precautions and going above and beyond what they normally do to ensure their loved ones are safe. If they are not clearly recognised and supported during this emergency then more people will become unwell and need support.

“Carers are worried about how they will manage. The Government must ensure that local authorities continue to assess those most in need of care and support plans, including carers, at this time.

“No-one should suffer financially when they are supporting our health and social care services. The new package of measures must include support for all people who are caring and therefore unable to work.”