A NEW strategy for supporting carers in Wiltshire is being brought forward for public review.

Following a consultation with carers, people are now able to have their say on a draft of the new council strategy that aims to support carers.

The strategy has been developed by Wiltshire Council, NHS Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group and a number of the county’s carers, as the last strategy was due for a refresh.

A carer is someone of any age who provides unpaid support to a family member or friend who could not always manage without this help.

According to the 2011 census there were more than 47,000 carers in Wiltshire.

Members of the public, especially carers, are being encouraged to comment on the draft strategy to influence the future commissioning of support for carers in Wiltshire.

Carer Support Wiltshire, a charity supporting carers in the county, have joined national organisations such as Carers UK to urge Wiltshire carers to add their voice to the review.

Catharine Hurford, chief executive of Carer Support Wiltshire, said: “Good and bad it’s often tough being a carer and sometimes it is hard to find the time to complete yet another survey. But your views matter.

“Carers are playing increasingly important roles in our society.

“Making sure your experience is known and the likely impact of changes to charging policies on you is understood by those tasked with looking after our social care system in Wiltshire.”

Wiltshire Council corporate director Maggie Rae said: “Carers carry out such an important role in our communities and we want to ensure they are fully supported.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to get involved in this consultation as we want this strategy to be as effective as it can be and strongly represent the views of carers.”

Wiltshire Council cabinet member for public health Keith Humphries said: “With changes taking place in the adult care sector, this strategy is timely and will help to ensure carers feel fully supported in their important roles.

“I’m really pleased we have been able to engage with carers in developing a strategy which has their needs at the very heart of it.”

The full draft strategy can be viewed at: consult.wiltshire.gov.uk/portal/adult_care/wiltshire_joint_carers_strategy_2016-20

People should send their feedback to Karen Walters before July 13, by post to at County Hall, Bythesea Road, Trowbridge BA14 8JN or by emailing karen.walters@wiltshire.gov.uk