The visit to Hetherington Group Practice was to highlight how better integration of health and social care services can better support the UK’s six million carers.

The practice has pioneered enhanced services for housebound patients with dedicated specialist outreach nurses and established forums so carers can get advice and information as well as feedback on their own experiences.

Paul Burstow said:

'Carers Week is an opportunity for all us to recognise the outstanding work that Britain’s six million carers do.

'One million people care for someone for more than 50 hours a week. We must ensure they get the support they need and are able to have some time to themselves.

'We’re going to use direct payments so that carers have real control over their lives and get more breaks, and better access to respite care, which is crucial for giving carers a breather and a life beyond their caring responsibilities.”

Giving carers a breather and a life beyond their caring responsibilities is a key commitment for the Government. Ways of offering more breaks for carers, better access to respite care and direct payments, so that carers have real control over their lives, are under careful consideration.

To read the full press release, click here