Liverpool City Council is reaffirming its commitment to unpaid carers by setting out its long-term vision to ensure they receive the support needed to care for their families and loved ones.
The All-Age Carers Strategy, which will go before Cabinet (Tuesday 20 January) sets out a plan to improve support for unpaid carers across the city.
Carers in Liverpool often face significant challenges, balancing their caring role with other responsibilities such as work, education, and family life. For young carers, this can be particularly demanding as they navigate the complexities of childhood while also providing care for a loved one. In addition, many do not identify as carers and may be unaware of the support and resources available to them.
The strategy, which has been developed in partnership with carers, professionals, and local support organisations, focuses on raising awareness, improving access to services, and ensuring carers are recognised, respected, and included in decisions that affect them.
To shape the strategy, the Council worked closely with carers to make sure plans reflect real-life experiences and that their voices were heard throughout the process.
Engagement included discussions and co-production sessions with carers of all ages to ensure their views were represented and their ideas included.
The Council also collaborated with internal teams and external partners, including health and voluntary sector organisations, to review current support and identify opportunities for improvement.
A formal consultation on the draft strategy took place between June and August 2025, encouraging carers, residents, and stakeholders to provide feedback. This input informed the final version of the strategy.
Councillor Angela Coleman, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services, said: “The Council recognises that unpaid carers play an essential role in supporting family members, friends, and loved ones often balancing care with work, education, and other responsibilities.
“Many do not identify as carers and may be unaware of the help available to them. The strategy aims to address these challenges and respond to the experiences shared during its development.”
Anne Marie Lubanski, Deputy Chief Executive and Corporate Director of Adult Care and Health, said: “This strategy has been shaped by carers themselves, alongside professionals and local organisations. It’s about listening to real experiences and turning them into action.
“It aims to raise awareness, make support easier to access, and ensure carers are recognised, respected, and included in decisions that affect their lives, making sure they feel valued and supported every step of the way.”
Lynne cares for her sister Nancy, who has Alzheimer’s. Lynne said: “Nancy has a professional carer, but I care for her every day too, doing the shopping, washing, and taking her out when I can.
“It’s hard work, and finding time for myself is difficult. That’s why I think this new Carers Strategy is so important. I hope it will make a real difference for people like me.”
