A cross-government roundtable to champion carers’ needs has been announced by Minister for care, Helen Whately.

Whately made the announcement during a reception to mark Carers Week in Downing Street yesterday.

The minister said: “Over 4 million people in England are unpaid carers. Carers Week is a time to focus on the huge efforts of carers, show appreciation and focus on what more we can do to support people caring for loved ones.

“Making sure carers are recognised in health, social care and education is a priority – along with helping people recognise themselves as carers so they can tap into local carers networks and support.

“I care about carers. I am going to hold a cross-government roundtable with other ministers to make sure that carers’ needs aren’t just recognised in social care, but in every aspect of their lives.”

The reception, held in partnership with Carers UK, provided an opportunity for a wide range of carers and carer organisations, as well as others who engage with unpaid carers through their work, to gather and discuss next steps on bettering support for carers.

Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK, said: “Carers Week is an important annual opportunity to recognise the vital contribution made by the UK’s estimated 5.7 million unpaid carers looking after relatives or friends who are older, disabled or seriously ill.

“While often a rewarding role, caring for a loved one also comes with its challenges. This week we highlight just how important it is that unpaid carers are acknowledged and supported by all parts of the community.

“Yesterday’s Downing Street reception was an exciting occasion for unpaid carers to come together and be recognised for their contribution. We welcome the minister for care’s commitment to a cross-government roundtable which will be an important opportunity for ministers to consider the financial and practical support many unpaid carers really need.

“Led by Carers UK, this year’s Carers Week is supported by Age UK, Carers Trust, MND Association, The Lewy Body Society, Rethink Mental Illness and Oxfam.”