The number of people dependent on another in Jersey is growing and will continue to escalate in the years ahead
Without the right support, caring can take its toll, many Carers say that caring has pushed them in to financial hardship and nearly three quarters said they have suffered mental health problems because of the pressure.
The Jersey community owes a great deal to thousands of people who provide unpaid care and support to a family member or friend. The pressure on many carers is often high and the impact on their lives significant. Offering the right type and amount of support is crucial, in order to meet the needs of carers who want to continue to care for their family and friends and who want to ‘thrive not just survive.’
Undertaking caring roles can have a wide-ranging impact on individuals in a number of areas of their lives, including physical health, education, training, employment, financial, emotional health and relationships with family and friends. Carers are people of all ages and cultural backgrounds and the pressures are even more intense for carers who are very young, in their later years or have an additional vulnerability themselves.
Work has already been undertaken to improve and develop support services and training for Carers in Jersey. However, addressing the impact of undertaking an unpaid caring role and recognising the contribution individuals make for islanders and for the economy of the island continues to be a priority.
Our strategy sets out our vision and new model for meeting the needs of Carers. It highlights the need for a growing culture of inclusion and empowerment that will most effectively meet the needs of Carers and the people they support and care for. It identifies the areas for change needed in Jersey, so we can ensure that local Carers thrive in their roles and their lives.