The Welsh Government is setting out its ambition for Wales to be
a ‘Carer Aware' nation – where unpaid carers are recognised
earlier and treated as partners in the planning for the person
they care for.
A public consultation has been launched today (Monday 2 February)
on a new draft National Strategy for Unpaid Carers, asking people
across Wales to help shape how this vision becomes a reality.
The draft strategy has been developed working with hundreds of
carers and their representatives across Wales.
It identifies eight priorities, including better recognition for
carers, ensuring young carers do not have too much
responsibility, improving access to respite, and improving
wellbeing support.
The aim includes Wales being a ‘Carer Aware' nation. This means
carers of all ages, from all communities, and including disabled
carers, are able to access information that is appropriate to
them in their local area when they need it.
It also means identifying carers sooner, so they receive vital
help and advice from the very beginning of their caring journey
and giving carers a stronger voice when decisions are made about
the people they look after.
The availability of sufficient and appropriate alternative care
arrangements and short breaks for carers is also crucial to
enable carers to look after their wellbeing.
Minister for Children and Social Care, said: "Too often, unpaid
carers go unrecognised – even by themselves. They're simply
'looking after mum' or 'helping out a friend', but caring can
have a profound impact on people's finances, careers, health and
wellbeing.
"We want Wales to be a place where carers are identified early,
where they know their rights, and where they're treated as
partners for the person they care for.
“This consultation is important in shaping a strategy which takes
into full account how carers feel and how they're supported. I'd
encourage everyone with an interest to provide their views during
the consultation phase."
The consultation can be found at gov.wales/draft-national-strategy-unpaid-carers-2026.
It is open now and closes on 13 April.
