Liberal Democrat MP for Solihull Lorely Burt has welcomed the announcement of plans by the Coalition Government to make sure carers are able get a break.

Last year, Liberal Democrat Care Minister, Paul Burstow announced an extra £400m for Primary Care Trusts to allow carers to take a well-earned break, but a recent study has found that many PCTs are not spending this money on carers.

The Coalition Government has now announced a new framework to ensure that by September next year, the local NHS must have plans in place to support carers and must publish these plans.

Commenting, Lorely Burt said: “In difficult times Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing and making sure we help those who need it most.

“I am proud that Liberal Democrats are making life a little bit easier for carers in Solihull who are some of the most unsung heroes we have.

“This is a manifesto commitment that the Liberal Democrats are delivering in the Coalition Government.”

Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Care Minister, Paul Burstow said: “We know that most people who need care would prefer for it to be provided by a loved one and that personal touch can make the world of difference to their lives.

“Family carers contribute billions of pounds to the economy with the amount of care and support they give, driven by nothing but a selfless desire to help those they love, reducing the need for local authorities and the NHS to step in.

“It is only right we try and reward those carers with a few days off here and there, or a short break away, to alleviate them of the day-to-day pressure that comes with caring.

“That is why we have asked the NHS to work closer than ever before with local authorities, to pool their money, to agree plans and to make sure carers get the break they all deserve.”