Diolch, Lywydd. Thank you. I’m pleased to be able to raise the issue of carers in the Chamber today. I’m particularly pleased to have the short debate on St David’s Day and on an issue that I believe is so crucial to our society. I’ve agreed to give my colleagues Joyce Watson, Julie Morgan, and Hannah Blythyn a minute of the time allocated.

One of the huge privileges of being an elected representative is the opportunity to meet people and talk with them about their experiences, hopes and ideas. Since being elected, it has struck me how many people in Wales are caring for loved ones at all ages, for different family members, and at different stages in their lives. It has been said that there are four types of people: those who have cared for someone, those who are caring for someone, those who will care for someone, and those who will be cared for. I think this sums up the importance of this issue.

With a growing older population, often with complex care needs, it’s inevitable that we need more carers. Already in 2017, Carers UK estimated that the number of older people needing care will outnumber family members able to meet their need.