New 10-year programme to support unpaid carers

The new service is due to begin in April 2026

A new multimillion-pound service is being developed to better support unpaid carers.

Oxfordshire's current programme will provide more respite care and improve the way people identify themselves as carers, to help them improve access to benefits.

The 10-year programme, which is due to begin in April 2026, will cost £1.07m each year, funded equally by Oxfordshire County Council and the local NHS.

Carers Oxfordshire, which is responsible for the service, said: "By supporting unpaid carers, we're not only improving lives but also easing the immense pressure on the NHS."

Juliet Cocks, who is head of the group, said: "Unpaid carers are the backbone of our community. Every day, they provide essential support to loved ones, often at great personal cost.

"Our service exists to ensure they're not alone—offering guidance, support and advocacy."

'Support and resources'

More than 52,000 people in Oxfordshire provide some level of unpaid care to a family member or friend, with the overall value of carers in the UK estimated at £184bn each year.

The enhanced programme will include increases to carers payments, totalling more than £625,000 each year, and provide one-off grants for specific items.

Councillor Tim Bearder, cabinet member for adult social care, said: "We know that every day, thousands of hours of care are freely given by people across Oxfordshire.

"Friends, family members, neighbours, and community champions are offering their time, compassion, and support to some of our most vulnerable residents.

"As a council and NHS, we have a duty to ensure these incredible individuals receive the support and resources they need.

"Their dedication is helping people remain in their own homes, where they can enjoy a better quality of life, and reducing the need for institutional care."