Carers Week 2025

This Carers Week, I want to pay tribute to the unpaid carers across Newbury and West Berkshire, everyday heroes who quietly care for loved ones, often without recognition or the support they deserve.

Unpaid carers are the backbone of our social care system. Whether looking after an elderly parent, a child with additional needs, or a partner with a long-term condition, millions of people across the UK are juggling caring responsibilities with work, family life, and their own health.

With an ageing population and growing numbers of people with long-term conditions, our reliance on unpaid carers will only increase. However, for too long, carers have been taken for granted by those in power.

The Liberal Democrats have always championed unpaid carers. We believe they must be properly supported to care for their loved ones—and to live their own lives to the fullest. That’s why we’re pushing for real change, including:

• Reforming Carer’s Allowance so that carers don’t lose everything by earning just a penny over the threshold. We’d taper support gradually and consult carers on reducing the 35-hour-a-week eligibility rule.

• Guaranteeing respite breaks, giving carers the time to rest and recharge. We’d make this a legal right, backed by properly funded free personal care.

• Introducing paid carer’s leave, building on the unpaid entitlement that the Lib Dems already secured in law.

  
  

The Carer’s Allowance earnings limit has a harsh cliff edge that punishes people for working even slightly more.

Carers should not be forgotten. I will continue raising their voices in Parliament and pushing for a system that recognises and respects the vital role they play.

This Carers Week, let’s stand with those who give so much of themselves—because they deserve better.

If you’re a carer in Newbury or West Berkshire, or if you’d like to share your experience, please do get in touch.

Find out more at www.carersweek.org