City council to announce new service for thousands of protectors.
A new service that will make it easier for thousands of unpaid carers to get practical help and support, is being prepared by Milton Keynes City Council.
The council estimates that there are 21,000 unpaid carers in MK, including many young people who look after family members who need their help, often due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction.
The city council is investing more than £2 million over five years in a scheme called The Carers Support Service, which will be available from May. Delivered by Citizens Advice Milton Keynes, it combines a range of specialist assistance for unpaid carers of all ages, with face-to-face and phone support plus online help.
Carers will be helped to unlock money and benefits and guided on making plans for emergencies. The scheme will also offer opportunities for carers to meet people in similar situations and form new bonds.
The Carers Support Service will be available to anyone who provides regular care for a friend or family member who lives in Milton Keynes. Specialist organisations within the Carers Support Service will focus on young carers and young adult carers. There will also be dedicated support for those who care for older people, people with mental health conditions, with a learning disability or neurodivergence.
“Caring can be exceptionally challenging, and we know that many unpaid carers put their own wellbeing to one side,” said Councillor Donna Fuller, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Communities.
“We’ve worked with local carers to better understand their needs, and this has enabled us to remodel local services whilst making them easier to access. Whether unpaid carers are looking for respite, financial or wellbeing support, our new service will be ready to help them."
“Many unpaid carers are not aware of the help they are entitled to, and we know that the majority of carers are concerned about the financial impacts of caring,” said Ben Thomas, Director, Citizens Advice Milton Keynes.
“Driven by the city council and supported by a wealth of local partners, this new service will enable us to ensure that carers in Milton Keynes have access to financial, emotional and practical assistance.”
The council provides a minimum direct payment of £240 for unpaid carers alongside access to additional assistance that will vary for individuals. More information on support available to unpaid carers here: Carers Assessment webpage.
