Part of 2. 2. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Well-being and Sport – in the Senedd at 2:47 pm on 5 October 2016.
I’m sure that Members across the Chamber will recognise the significant value that carers provide, not just simply in financial terms, but also in terms of the ability to be cared for by a loved one or by someone they know. Many of us in this room will, of course, have had experience of being carers for friends and/or family members. Members will also, I hope, know that the Minister is the lead Minister for carers and, indeed, as she’s taking forward the social services and well-being Act, and the carers strategy within it, there is an understanding of the fact that carers now, for the first time, have the ability and the statutory right to have their own needs assessed by public services as well. That’s a real step forward.
So, I expect that carers in Wales—I certainly hope that they will see and recognise that we’re taking positive steps forward. I know that Carers Wales have contact with the Minister and I’m sure that any proposals they have will be considered seriously by the Minister and me as we look to understand how we can further improve the provision for carers, for their ability to have respite breaks as well, but also to understand that you need to see the carer and the person they care for individually and understand what they mean together, to and for each other. But, again, if you wish to have a more detailed discussion on this, I’m sure the Minister would be very happy to make time to have that conversation with you.