Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw has backed plans for greater carers’ support at the Assembly.

If taken forward by the Minister, the plans would include a carers’ register, a recognition payment and an increase in respite services.

During the debate Paula raised a number of pressing concerns from local people, after people got in touch when she highlighted the issue on social media last week.

She added: “I was amazed by the amount of people who came forward, who have been struggling or know of someone who has struggled over the past year.

“The plight of carers is yet another crisis point in our health service which is simply not up to scratch. This situation has been made worse by the removal of key services throughout the Covid pandemic.

“Carers’ are currently being failed and we can’t stand by and allow that to continue. These innovative plans aim to help alleviate some of the stresses currently being felt, creating a more workable system that aids those who need to rely on it most.”