States urged to consider care-at-home provision

Ellie Lawrence is calling for more support for Guernsey's carers

The States of Guernsey has been urged to explore the needs of informal carers as it prepares to debate changes in funding care.

Proposals to increase the years of residency on the island required to qualify for long-term and respite care are due to be discussed in the chamber this week.

Ellie Lawrence, chair of Carers Guernsey, said further provision was needed for informal carers who provided "invaluable support" but faced "financial challenges".

She said caring responsibilities impacted thousands of people in the community and "addressing their needs must be part of the broader conversation on the future of care".

'Real choice and support'

Ms Lawrence said further progress was needed to develop a system that provided "real choice and support for those caring for loved ones".

She said she had met Deputy Peter Roffey, President of the Committee for Employment and Social Security, and the vice-president, Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, to discuss the issues around sustainable care-at-home.