Michael Noonan
Question:198 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Health and Children his Department's estimate of the number of carers; the categories of carers included in this figure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12063/00]
Written Answers. - Carer Statistics.
The information requested by the Deputy is not available in my Department. However, figures published in 1998 by the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs in its Review of the Carer's Allowance, estimate that there are approximately 40,000 full-time carers.
In 1999, £1 million was allocated to health boards specifically for the support of carers and it was used to benefit carers in a flexible manner based on local needs. This funding was used to develop additional services for carers, including day care, respite care and home support services. Assistance was also provided to aid the setting up of carer support groups and to improve training for carers. Co-ordinators/liaison officers were appointed to assist with the development and support of carers. Some £800,000 was allocated to the boards to recruit more paramedical and nursing staff who were assigned to the home care of older people which, in turn, also assisted carers. These initiatives have been continued this year with a further £1 million provided specifically for the support of carers and £780,000 to improve community supports.