MOORE : MINISTERS MUST HELP BORDERS CARERS PROTECT THEIR FUTURES

12.00.00am GMT Mon 30th Nov 2009

Local MP Michael Moore has called on Ministers to ensure that unpaid carers in the Borders are aware of the support that is available to help them plan for their futures.

Mr Moore was speaking ahead of Carers Rights Day 2009, an annual event that celebrates the contribution made by unpaid carers around the UK. This years event on 4 December is seeking to increase take-up of benefits and raise awareness of the pension protection support to which carers may be entitled.

Researchers at Leeds University have estimated that carers save the UK economy almost £90 billion every year. Despite this, many individuals looking after family members suffer reduced income and employment opportunities, with their commitment to care preventing them from taking on paid work.

Mr Moore is an active campaigner for greater support and recognition for carers.

Commenting, he said:

'Census data shows that there are around 10,000 people in the Borders who care for friends or relatives and it is essential that they are given information about their rights so they can get the support they need.

'It is no exaggeration to say that our public services would be in crisis if the six million carers in the UK stopped their work and the fact that they may not be getting all the help they are entitled to is of great concern.

'I am delighted to lend my support to Carers Day 2009, and I hope that this important campaign will help more of my constituents who are dedicated to looking after someone to access greater levels of help and advice.'