Government commits to carer support review

Lyndsay Feltham said islands leaders wanted to "ensure dignity and fairness" for carers

The minister for social security in Jersey has ordered an "urgent review" of the support available to carers in the island.

Deputy Lyndsay Feltham said the review would be completed as a "matter of priority" over the next few weeks and would include considering increased support and change to legislation.

Feltham said carers provided an "exceptional service" to the island, and said the government's priority was to "ensure dignity and fairness" for them.

In a statement, the minister urged any carers who were struggling to call the Employment, Social Security and Housing Department to find out what support was available.

'Fair, effective and sustainable'

Feltham, who is also the deputy leader of Reform Jersey, said: "The Government of Jersey has listened carefully to the concerns raised by carers, advocacy organisations and the wider community about the challenges faced by people who care for loved ones.

"Carers make an extraordinary contribution to our island.

"Their commitment sustains families, protects wellbeing, and helps many islanders remain in their own homes."

Feltham said her team would work "in close partnership" with carers and their families, States members and community organisations to ensure proposals directly addressed the needs of carers - and were "fair, effective and sustainable".