The Lead Commissioner of Community Care Market introduced the report of the Director of Care and Health which updated Members on Carers Services and provided an update on the development of a new Wirral Adults Carers Strategy. The report gave an overview of changes nationally and locally that directly influenced the strategic review.

The 2011 Census reported that there were in excess of 40,000 carers who provided informal care in Wirral and contributed towards the local economy by reducing the demand on Wirral health and care services. There were 748 self-reported 0–15-year-olds and 2,840 16–24-year-olds with caring responsibilities in Wirral.

The current carers strategy was under review and through collaboration with colleagues across the North West, a new white paper that was made available in December 2021 was being utilised to develop a local strategy. Following a series of engagement events and the annual carers survey, 125 carers stated that they would like to be involved in the co-production of the strategy.

It was reported that a new Early Intervention and Prevention & Carers service had been commissioned and went live on 1^st March 2022. This had been awarded to Wirral Health and Wellbeing Community Interest Company with the remit to improve the number of carers identified and to increase the awareness of carers services across the borough.

A discussion ensued regarding the carers assessments, assurance was given that although they could be completed online, anyone who struggled with this format could still be offered face to face assessments. It was identified that as well as being able to self-refer for a care assessment, a GP could also make the referral.

Concerns were raised about the length of time co-production of strategy could take and the amount of consultation with young carers. Members felt that the strategy would need more time to be developed and co-produced before being brought to the Committee as final.

On a motion by Councillor Nolan, seconded by Councillor Jordan it was –

Resolved – That the progress to date in developing the Carers Services and the Wirral Adults Carers Strategy be endorsed, and a further report be brought to the Committee in November 2022.