Government commits to review support available to carers

​Statement from Deputy Lyndsay Feltham, Minister for Social Security:

The Government of Jersey has listened carefully to the concerns raised by carers, advocacy organisations and the wider community about the challenges faced by people who care for loved ones. Carers make an extraordinary contribution to our Island. Their commitment sustains families, protects wellbeing, and helps many Islanders remain in their own homes.

I committed in the States Assembly last week to working collaboratively to improve support for carers and to take a holistic approach across Government to ensure fairness and understand any gaps in provision. I have directed officers to undertake an urgent review of the range of support available. This work will be completed as a matter of priority over the next few weeks and will include looking at increased support and, if required, legislative change.

It will also look specifically at the support available to working age and pensioner carers to ensure that all carers receive support for their caring responsibilities and are not left struggling.

My team and I will work in close partnership with carers and their families, States Members and community organisations to ensure that any proposals directly address the needs of carers, and are fair, effective and sustainable. I have already arranged to meet Carers organisations this coming week, and I will bring forward a clear plan, along with a timetable for implementation, in the next few weeks.

Family carers provide exceptional service to our Island, and our priority is to ensure dignity and fairness for carers. We are committed to taking action to ensure our support achieves this. The Government will continue to engage with carers and stakeholder organisations as these plans are developed, ensuring that policy reform reflects real lived experience and delivers practical support where it is needed most.

If any carer is in a position where they are struggling right now, please call the Employment, Social Security & Housing department on 444444, who can look at the range of support options available to you.​