The National Carers’ Strategy, which sets the strategic direction for future policies, services and supports provided by government departments and agencies for carers, has been launched today by Kathleen Lynch TD, Minister of State for Disability, Equality, Mental Health and Older People along with the Taoiseach the Tánaiste.
The purpose of the strategy is to support carers and to address issues of concern. It’s mission statement is: “Carers will be recognised and respected as key care partners. They will be supported to maintain their own health and well-being and to care with confidence. They will be empowered to participate as fully as possible in economic and social life”.
A key objective of government policy for older people, children and adults with an illness or a disability is to support them to live in dignity and independence in their own homes for as long as is possible.
The publication of this strategy, according to Minister Lynch government departments and agencies that deal with carers in any of their functions must now take their lead from the strategy and use it to inform their planning and policies in the future.