Minister praises role of NI carers 



Health Minister Paul Goggins has today re-iterated his support for the crucial role played by carers in meeting the social care needs of local people.

 Speaking at a Carers Event in Belfast he encouraged even greater co-operation between statutory and voluntary sectors in identifying and supporting carers.

Mr Goggins said: "This event is about bringing together those in the health and personal social services who are responsible for assessing carers' needs and those in the voluntary sector who can respond to those needs in a flexible and practical way.



"This is an excellent opportunity for the voluntary sector to showcase the services they can offer and to join with Boards and Trusts in the design, delivery and evaluation of services to the carers in our communities."

The Minister added that there is a clear recognition of the value and support which carers make to vulnerable people in society.



"We want to support vulnerable people to live independent lives in dignity and safety. The contribution of carers is absolutely vital to the achievement of that aim. It is only right that we develop practical support that will allow them to continue in their caring role but enjoy the sort of life that the rest of us take for granted."



There are approximately 185,000 unpaid carers currently in Northern Ireland taking care of a family member or a friend who may not be able to manage without this help because of frailty, illness or disability.

(EF)