A new report, released by the Archbishops’ Commission on Reimagining Care, calls for a National Care Covenant with three actions to deliver a new vision for care and support in England. Importantly, this Covenant includes a New Deal for unpaid carers.

The Commission proposes rebalancing and reimagining care, so that people have a choice about who cares for them and who provides care. It also proposes a New Deal for unpaid carers which includes elements we know carers want to see, including a review of Carer’s Allowance, restorative breaks and a more personalised approach that values relationships. 

Emily Holzhausen OBE, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Carers UK, said:

“We are delighted to be involved in the Commission on Reimagining Care, enabling unpaid carers to share their experiences and the challenges they face directly. It is clear in the evidence provided to the Commission that many are exhausted, overlooked and stretched to the limit.

“The proposed New Deal recognises these challenges, and how restorative breaks, better funding and a change in approach could support unpaid carers, especially those with demanding roles, to take time out to look after their own health and wellbeing. Many carers feel that Carer’s Allowance does not come anywhere close to helping them manage financially while caring for 35 hours or more a week, and we would welcome a review of the benefit.

“We look forward to shining a light on the best practice for supporting carers in England and we urge the Government to implement the elements of this New Deal so that unpaid carers have the fulfilling life that they need and deserve.”