North East Lincolnshire Council is updating its All Age Carers Strategy, and is seeking the views of local people to help shape the support that is available for unpaid carers.
In our area, there are approximately 14,000 unpaid carers (sometimes referred to as ‘informal carers’) providing vital support to family members, friends, or neighbours. This includes adult carers, young carers, and parent carers.
In 2023, the Council developed the current Carers Strategy working closely with carers, health and care professionals, local organisations and members of the public.
Now the Council are refreshing the strategy, and are carrying out some engagement work, inviting people to help shape the future strategy, by responding to a survey or popping along to an engagement event.
A Carers Strategy Refresh drop-in event will take place on Thursday 5 November between 10am and 2pm at the Carers Centre, 1 Town Hall Sq, Grimsby DN31 1HY, offering residents the opportunity to give their views in-person.
Councillor Nigel Oliver, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and adult social care at North East Lincolnshire Council, explained why people should get involved:
“We regularly review our policies to make sure that they’re right for the people in our communities.
“As we refresh the current strategy, we are once again asking for people to help us to shape it so that it meets the needs of carers.
“The updated strategy will guide support for unpaid carers across North East Lincolnshire until 2030
“Unpaid carers are so important in our communities – they help friends and relatives to remain in their homes, keeping their independence. That’s why it’s so vital that our strategy supports them.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank all those in our area who are supporting their friends and loves ones.”
While caring can be rewarding, it can also affect a person’s health, wellbeing, finances, and day-to-day life. By participating in the engagement activity, residents can help to ensure that future support meets the needs of local unpaid carers and works well for them.
The survey is open to:
- Unpaid carers aged 18 years of age and over – unpaid carers includes anyone who may be receiving carers allowance
- Professionals working with local people
- Any North East Lincolnshire resident, whether or not they have caring experience
If you are under 18 years of age, there is a Young Persons Carers survey to complete.
To participate in the survey, visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/have-your-say.
Share this article