Female Carers Need Equality of Opportunity - Randerson

9.47.34am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 23rd Apr 2007

To coincide with 'Equality Day' on Sunday Jenny Randerson, Welsh Liberal Democrat Equal Opportunities and Health Spokesperson is calling for female carers to be given greater recognition.

Jenny said: "According to Assembly Statistics, one in five women are carers and it is obvious from the statistics that this affects the mental health of many of them.

"15% of young women carers reported being treated for mental illness compared to 9% for non-carers. In men there was no discernable difference between non-carers and carers.

"Poor mental health and lack of respite seriously undermine the ability of carers to progress in their own lives. That's why Welsh Liberal Democrats want to use the Assembly's new powers to protect carers' rights.

"The Labour Assembly Government has been pushed into supporting carers in the past but the next Assembly government needs to do more to specifically target young women who are bearing the brunt of caring responsibilities. They need respite and access to information, which our Assembly measure (the name for new Assembly laws) would guarantee.

"The Welsh Liberal Democrats have long campaigned for a more extensive use of grants for carers. In the past carers needs have often been ignored. Carers save the Government a great deal of money whilst at the same time many of them experience severe financial hardship."

Notes:

Welsh Liberal Democrats are also publishing an equality mini-manifesto to show its commitment to equality as part of a fairer, greener Wales.

Printed, Published and Promoted by Stephen Smith on behalf of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, all at 102 Bute Street, Cardiff, CF10 5AD

Argraffwyd, Cyhoeddwyd ac Hyrwyddwyd gan Stephen Smith ar rhan Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol Cymru, 102 Stryd Bute, Caerdydd, CF10 5AD

Contact/Cyswllt: Election desk on 029 2031 3649

Ends/diwedd