Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will increase funding for (a) paid and (b) unpaid carers to have access to breaks from their caring responsibilities.

The Care Act 2014 introduced rights for carers which includes an assessment of and support for, their needs where eligible. During the pandemic, we have provided £1.35 billion via the Infection Control Fund, part of which has been used to support the safe reopening of day and respite services. In addition, we have committed at least £6.9 billion in 2021-2022 to the Better Care Fund, which includes funding that can be used on social care support, including respite services.

We have also taken steps to support the social care sector workforce during the pandemic. To support the wellbeing of social care workers, the Department, the National Health Service and other organisations have provided a package of emotional, psychological and practical resources. This includes support helplines, guidance, bereavement resources and a bespoke package of support for registered managers.