February 17th, 2021.

Lewes Liberal Democrats release:


Local Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesperson, James MacCleary, is backing calls on the government to “give carers a break”, by giving councils immediate emergency funding so they can provide the support services unpaid carers need to take a weekly break.

At last count there were more than 10,000 people across Lewes constituency looking after elderly, disabled or vulnerable people during the Covid pandemic.

In a letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, Ed Davey highlights research from Carers UK showing that nationally:

- 64% of carers have not been able to take any breaks from their caring role during the pandemic,

- 74% feel exhausted and worn out as a result of caring during Covid, and

- 44% say they are reaching breaking point.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Chancellor to provide local authorities with emergency funding in his Budget on the 3rd of March at the latest.

James MacCleary, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Lewes constituency said: “People in our community looking after their loved ones are doing a remarkable and important job in very difficult circumstances.

"Last time it was counted there were over 10,000 unpaid carers in our area and that number is thought to have increased substantially. They have taken on dramatically increased caring responsibilities during this pandemic. Most haven’t been able to take a single break since the pandemic started. Many are simply exhausted.

“Liberal Democrats are standing up for carers and calling on the government to give them a break.”

Launching the campaign, Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey said: “Our wonderful carers deserve more support, but they are too often forgotten and ignored by people in power.

“The Chancellor mustn’t ignore carers any longer. He must provide local councils with emergency funding now, to finally give carers a break.

“Liberal Democrats are working to build a more caring society as we emerge from this pandemic.”