Carers’ Card scheme designed to support unpaid carers in East Sussex
Carers’ Card scheme designed to support unpaid carers in East Sussex |
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| Date of article: 04-Apr-12
East Sussex County Council have launched a Carers’ Card scheme in Eastbourne, that the adult social care department will look to roll out across the county if found to be of benefit to service users and businesses. In collaboration with local charity Care for the Carers, the new Card supports unpaid carers by offering discounts at local retailers and leisure venues, with the aim of encouraging other businesses to join. By reaching out to unpaid carers, the Council hope to see more individuals come forward and have their care provision needs assessed, who might not currently realise they are eligible to source social care. Pleased to see this innovation, councillor and lead member for adult social care Bill Bentley said: “This is great news all round. Not only will it benefit unpaid carers, who should be valued and respected for the support they provide to friends and family, but it also gives local businesses an opportunity to become part of the scheme. Alongside our Buy with Confidence and Support with Confidence schemes, this is another step towards a better quality of life in East Eussex.” The Council’s Support and Buy with Confidence schemes have been successful in helping local consumers, who might be vulnerable to fraud, to source financial services and approved traders, as well as establishing a mediation service for any complaints or issues that arise. Individuals judged to qualify for the Carer’s Card will be given a directory of all the businesses registered and vetted to offer discounts, in line with the Council’s quality and safety standards. |
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