NHS England’s Commitment to Carers

The NHS in England has released news of how it will support carers in future.  

The new chief executive of NHS England has paid tribute to carers for their “immense contribution” as he pledged to do more to help them.

Simon Stevens launched NHS England’s Commitment to Carers to coincide with the Carers UK State of Caring Conference in London, which sets out how NHS England aims to help carers to provide better care and to stay well themselves.

With around 5.4 million carers in England alone they are an important asset to the NHS, as well as those that they care for. 

However, too often carers do not receive the recognition and support that they need and deserve from the NHS. The NHS has recognized that it needs to do more to help identify, support and recognise their vital roles. Helping carers to provide better care and to stay well themselves will contribute to better lives for those needing care and more effective use of NHS resources.

NHS England has developed 37 distinct commitments grouped within 8 priority areas as follows:

1. Raising the profile of carers;
2. Education, training and information;
3. Service development;
4. Person-centred, well-coordinated care;
5. Primary care;
6. Commissioning support;
7. Partnership links; and
8. NHS England as an employer.

To find out more about this programme either download the launch document (link in quote above) or visit the NHS Improving Quality website where the latest information can be found.