Cornwall Council Approves New Strategy to Support Unpaid Carers

A new strategy aimed at improving support for unpaid carers across Cornwall has been agreed by Cornwall Council.

The plan has been developed after speaking with carers of all ages and backgrounds to better understand their needs. It will shape a new community-based support service designed to offer more consistent and accessible help.

Listening to Carers Across Cornwall

The strategy focuses on people who regularly provide unpaid care to a relative, friend or neighbour. Cornwall Council says these carers often face significant challenges, including isolation, financial strain and impacts on their health.

Cornwall Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Partnerships, Cllr Jim McKenna, said:

“Carers provide essential, often round-the-clock support with little recognition. Their contribution is immense, yet many face isolation, financial strain and health challenges.

“This strategy starts to tackle these issues, ensuring carers are identified early, supported consistently and empowered to live well.”

Focus on Practical Support

The strategy sets out a number of priorities designed to improve day-to-day support for carers. These include:

• Better access to information and advice
• Flexible, person-centred support
• Recognition of the emotional and financial impact of caring
• Support for children and young people affected by caring roles
• Helping carers maintain their own health and wellbeing
• Offering both digital and non-digital ways to access support
• Stronger collaboration between health, social care and voluntary organisations

Cornwall Council Cabinet Member for Children’s, Families and Schools, Cllr Hilary Frank, said:

“Caring can be rewarding but demanding. That’s why this strategy focuses on practical support: better access to information, emotional help, financial advice and flexible services in the communities where carers live.

“It also aims to help more people understand carers’ needs, and make sure services across Cornwall work in ways that support people in caring roles.”

What the New Service Will Offer

The new service will aim to connect carers with a wider range of support, including community wellbeing activities, peer networks and specialist help.

It will also involve:

• Partnerships with schools, children’s services and youth organisations to better identify and support young carers
• Training across health, social care and community organisations so carers are recognised as experts by experience
• Access to statutory carers assessments and short breaks to help prevent crises

Jim added:

“This strategy provides a strong foundation, but its success depends on partnership working across our system. By championing carers in every conversation, assessment, and decision, we can ensure they receive the respect and support they deserve.

“Over the coming months, we’ll be working closely with partners and carers to smoothly transition into the new service.”

Next Steps

The strategy was formally agreed at a Cornwall Council Cabinet meeting. More details can be found in the full document available on the council website:
👉 Carers Strategy and Business Case

The council says work will now continue with partners and carers to roll out the new service in the months ahead.