Press release

SAGA SUPPORTS CARERS WEEK WITH CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR CARERS WHO DESERVE A BREAK

Monday 18 June 2012

As the largest provider of homecare services, Saga is supporting Carers Week this week and is calling for nominations for Carers who could benefit greatly from a free holiday provided by the Saga Respite for Carers Trust. This Trust was launched to try and help offer desperately needed breaks for as many carers each year as possible by providing a holiday for the carer and a friend. The award also includes spending money and respite care for their loved ones to ensure continuity of care so they can travel with peace of mind.

Dr Ros Altmann, Director-General of Saga, comments:

“The research today has highlighted the importance of Carers taking a break from their caring duties every once in a while to gain some much needed rest and relaxation. Carers are doing such a valuable job and making an enormous contribution to our society and we therefore need to ensure they are looked after.

“It is not in the nature of carers to complain, so it is essential that their friends and family encourage them to take a break and it is absolutely crucial that GPs are vigilant in overseeing the health of carers, doing everything possible to provide them with both screening and support. We also believe that GPs should be able to prescribe respite or even domiciliary care.

“The highly anticipated White Paper on care reform that is due to be published is expected to say that councils will be required to arrange support such as short "respite breaks" and transport or training to make it easier for carers to carry out their caring roles. It is also suggested that the 'wellbeing' of carers will be assessed to decide who will be entitled to these breaks and we’ve certainly seen what a wonderful effect a short break can have on the lives of full-time carers.”