Herefordshire Council has recently launched the All-Age Carers Strategy 2024–2029, setting out a shared commitment to improve support for unpaid carers of all ages. This strategy has been developed in partnership with carers, health and care professionals, and local organisations, and marks the beginning of a long-term effort to create a more carer-aware and carer-friendly county.

The strategy outlines six key priorities, including better access to information, improved support for carers’ wellbeing, and greater recognition of young carers. It also highlights the importance of peer support and the role of digital tools in making caring more manageable.

To help guide this work, a new Carers Partnership Board has been established. Chaired by someone with lived experience of caring, the board will bring together a range of voices to ensure that carers’ perspectives are central to how services are shaped and delivered.

An accompanying Action Plan sets out the first steps that will be taken, to turn the strategy into meaningful change. These include reviewing how carers are identified and assessed, improving communication, and exploring ways to make services more flexible and responsive. Herefordshire Council recognises that there is more to do and is committed to working with carers every step of the way.

As the Carers Partnership Board continues to develop, the board may reach out to unpaid carers across Herefordshire to gather feedback on how things are progressing. Your experiences and perspectives will be important in helping to understand what is working well and where improvements can be made.

Carers Week event at The Kindle Centre, June 2025.