Cornish Carers Short Changed By Government

10.07.22am GMT Tue 27th Feb 2007

The Government's national funding package for carers will amount to less that £5 per carer in Cornwall.

The Government last week unveiled a funding plan worth £30 million for carers across the country. The money will primarily be spent on three projects - the provision of short-term, home-based respite care, allowing carers a break from what is often a highly demanding and intense care situation, the development of carer training programmes, and a national carer helpline.

However, it has been disclosed that £266,000, less than one percent of the total amount, has been allocated to Cornwall's 55,500 unpaid carers, amounting to less than £5 per carer.

The package has received wide criticism from carers and organisations in Cornwall, including Disability Cornwall, and now the County's five Liberal Democrat MPs, who point out that the pledged sum is far beneath what is needed.

Commenting, MP for Truro & St Austell Matthew Taylor said:

"Such a measly sum for Cornwall's unsung heroes is hugely disappointing. To suggest that £266,000 will do for more than 55,500 Cornish carers is ludicrous, and little more than a press stunt for the Government to look like it's helping. In reality, the signal from the Government to Cornish carers is that they are worth less than a fiver."

"Of course we welcome any money for carer training and support, but if the Government would only take the time to speak to the people they are claiming to help they would realise that many of them are burnt-out and struggling, and in short-changing them they are also short-changing the people they care for."

Dan Rogerson, MP for North Cornwall, added:

"For families who are dealing with the reduction in support packages which has been forced on the county by a lack of Government funding, this will be seen as another missed opportunity to offer much needed support."