A new strategy aimed at improving the lives of unpaid carers across Derby and Derbyshire has been launched, setting out a shared approach to help carers feel recognised and supported. 

The Joined Up Care Derbyshire All-Age Carers Strategy officially launched at an event hosted by Derby City Council at the Council House on Tuesday 16 June. The event was attended by partners and carers who have played a part in developing the strategy by sharing their experiences, as well as carers who give up their time to support other people in their caring roles in their local communities. The strategy outlines clear priorities that will shape the support carers of all ages receive. 

Through a strong partnership approach, the strategy recognises that for carers to stay mentally, physically, socially and financially healthier for longer, everyone must work together to ensure that they receive the recognition and support they need. It also recognises the vital contributions that carers make every day. 

Around 99,700 people across Derby and Derbyshire have identified themselves as unpaid carers. However, there are many more people providing support to their friends and families every day which they wouldn’t be able to cope without. For many, caring can be rewarding and strengthen their relationships, but it can also have a significant impact on their wellbeing, finances, education, employment and social lives. 

The strategy focuses on three priorities which have been identified by carers:

  • Recognise – people recognising that they are (or may become) a carer and ensuring that they feel recognised and involved as equal expert partners with the person they support.
  • Support – providing early, consistent support that works for carers and ensuring they are not providing care in isolation.
  • Live – developing a system and community that supports carers to prioritise their own wellbeing. 

Councillor Alison Martin, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care at Derby City Council, said: 

Unpaid carers make a very significant contribution to the lives of the people they care for and to our communities, often without recognising themselves as carers.

This strategy has been shaped by carers who have discussed their experiences with us and told us what matters most to them. By working together with our partners across Derby and Derbyshire, we want to ensure that the strategy will help carers feel recognised and supported, and help them maintain their own health and wellbeing.

I’d like to thank the carers who shared their experiences and helped us develop the strategy. Their voices will continue to guide our work and help improve support for carers across Derby and Derbyshire.

The strategy has been co-produced through discussions, surveys and feedback from carers across Derby and Derbyshire, with organisations committed to taking a strong partnership approach to deliver on the improvements that carers need. 

Further information about support available for carers and the full All-Age Carers Strategy can be found on the Derbyshire Carers’ website.

Information on support for carers can also be found on the Derby City Council website.