Yesterday (7 March 22) members of the house of lords successfully won an amendment against the Government’s attempt to revoke the Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc) Act 2003 in the Health and Care Bill during its report stage within the Lords. If the Bill was unamended, unpaid carers would have lost their vital rights at the point of hospital discharge.
The amendment, which was led by Baroness Pitkeathley, had cross-party support from Lord Young, Baroness Hollins and Baroness Meacher.
This was an important and decisive “win” for carers, showing that Peers understood and recognised the value of unpaid carers’ support. The vote of 205 to 155 against the Government’s proposals sends a very clear message to Government that they should protect carers’ rights as the Bill progresses.
The amendment safeguards carers’ rights by ensuring hospitals consult with unpaid carers at the point of discharge, builds in checks that the carer is willing and able to care and would ensure joint working to make sure that the carers are supported. Importantly, the amendment means that the rights would apply to adults providing unpaid care to other adults who are disabled or chronically ill, parent carers of disabled children and young carers who are so often overlooked.
Carers UK’s research and in-depth evidence from carers showed that, by not consulting, involving or supporting the unpaid carer, the health of the patient, as well as the carer, was being put at risk. This included patients being readmitted to hospital where carers said this could have been avoided.
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:
“When this Bill returns to the Commons, it is essential that MPs understand why protecting carers rights is so important. It is vital to uphold this amendment and ensure that it remains in the Bill. Our evidence shows what a devastating time hospital discharge can be for carers if they are not consulted, involved or given the right information and support to care safely and well. They should not be taken for granted.
“We thank the carers for sharing their experiences and Peers who have contributed to this important vote.”
