Older carers must be recognised

The hard work and long hours put in by older carers must be recognised, Counsel and Care says this week.
 
Many carers are over 60-years-old and struggling to cope with a physically, emotionally and financially demanding role, according to the charity.

Counsel and Care is calling for a greater awareness of carers’ allowance and who is entitled to receive it. All carers are entitled to an assessment from social services.

“Older carers are the hidden backbone of the social care system. It is crucial that carers are given as much support as possible, that they know what they are entitled to as carers, and that they feel in control of their caring role,” said Stephen Burke, the charity’s chief executive.

The comments came as Carers’ rights day on 2 December and organised by Carers UK approaches.