£1.35m invested by Government to support carers

£1.35m invested by Government to support carers

People who care for their loved ones are to benefit from more than £1 million in Government investment for new support projects

We have an estimated 6 million carers who save the uk economy billions of pounds a year yet we can only find £1.35m to invest in them and not increase in the carers allowance you will note .

The death of the Big Society and the third sector

The following article its if great interest to anyone evolved in the third sector .

Source ...The Guardian
"Minister blocks No 10's rescue bid for 'big society' project - http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/feb/07/big-society-volunteering-eric-pickles

The fundamental question to me is "can the voluntary sector , within the UK cope with the above mentioned level of finding cuts ? I fear the answer its no .

Also I question the ability of the government to now achieve the goals originally set out for the Big Society in light of the refusal if Liverpool Council to take part .

New mental health strategy

The following link is to an excellent article in todays Guardian , its well worth a read

Coalition's mental health strategy inadequate, warns thinktank - http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/feb/07/coalition-mental-health-strategy-inadequate

Dorset Mental Health Card Scheme

A card scheme to help people affected by mental illness, and cares of them, will be launched in Dorset next week.

Leading national mental health charity Rethink is introducing the card scheme in partnership with Dorset County Hospital.

The scheme aims to make everyday situations easier for carers and mental health service users, by allowing them to communicate a simple message quickly, clearly and confidentially.


The Rethink card is designed to be subtle yet easily recognisable. The same size as a credit card, it accommodates useful information, such as contact details for carers, as well as room for the individual’s personal message.

The launch of the scheme will be at Dorset County Hospital at 2pm on Tuesday, February 8th in Damers Restaurant.

Cluster Based Carer Support Worker

I am wondering just how long it will be before we start to see GP Cluster Based Carer Support Worker in the region , my logic for this move being the trial help in the Midlands with GP grouping based Carer support workers ( set up on the same concept as PSA , a proven system of help and support all be it in the education/health field ) which by all accountants has been rather a success.

I am told the cost effect ratio is stunningly low , a fact which is bound to bring a smile to the face of the local councils !