Whilst our debate has mentioned our young carers and the fantastic and heart-warming work they do, as the Welsh Conservatives' older people's champion, I would like to highlight the work of our older carers within Wales. Of our 370,000 unpaid carers, around 24 per cent—that's 90,000—are over the age of 65, which is the highest proportion in the UK. Sixty-five per cent report having long-term health problems themselves, or, indeed, a disability of their own. Indeed, over two thirds say that being a carer has an adverse effect on their mental health and well-being. Whilst the social services and well-being Act widened the definition of a carer and implemented changes to carers assessments, Carers Wales have noted that there is little evidence that the Act has improved the lives of our carers.

Now, there are two key points I would like to address in terms of how the lives of older carers, and indeed carers of any age, might be improved: effective assessments regarding the help and support needed to continue caring, and effective, quality respite. As regards assessments in particular, Carers Wales note that councils may be acting unlawfully if carers are not made aware of the legal basis of the conversations or assessments they are having, with some councils allegedly using 'what matters' conversations as an assessment, rather than a formal and a distinctive meeting. So, I would be grateful if the Cabinet Secretary could confirm what steps he is taking to ensure that full clarity is provided by local authorities to carers in this regard. More worryingly, too, was the admittance by the Cabinet Secretary, on a written Assembly question last year, that it would not be possible to determine how many carers had an assessment by local authorities due to differences in definitions and timescales for data collection. So, of course, I would urge the Welsh Government to take serious steps to improve the situation, and would ask how it is possible for the Government to monitor outcomes and the success of this policy without the relevant data.

With regard to respite, the Carers Trust have highlighted the need for access to flexible and high-quality respite. Flexibility here is key, because respite doesn't just mean a weekend away, or a week in supporting accommodation; it can be just an hour's cover to enable a carer to pop to the shops, the bank, or for a quick coffee with their friends. Just imagine the impact that not being able to do those things that we so often take for granted, what that, might have on a person.

We talk a lot about the isolation and loneliness of older people in this Chamber. This can affect carers too. Although they have the company of the person they provide care for, this can often prevent them from having the time and the flexibility to see their other friends and members of their own family. We note the commitment of the Welsh Government to bring forward a national respite strategy, and a pledge last year of a £3 million fund for local authorities to support this. But, again, we're seeing little evidence of progress, and I would welcome an update from the Cabinet Secretary as to how this is being taken forward, the structure that this strategy takes, how this funding is being used by local authorities, and how many actual people are seeing the benefits and have received respite under the scheme.

Llywydd—Deputy—we know the invaluable work carers do here in Wales. We know that they save our economy upwards of £8.1 billion a year, but investing in carers can save almost £4 for every £1 spent, and in monetised health benefits could save the health system £7.88 for each £1 spent. We must all work harder to recognise the selfless dedication with which they support our most vulnerable people, and we must ensure that they are given our utmost support.

I look to the Welsh Government to support our motion today and to commit to improving the lives of carers of all ages in Wales. Diolch yn fawr.