Views sought on adult care and support

The Minister was speaking on World Alzheimer’s Day as he formally launched the public consultation document ‘Who Cares? The Future of Adult Care and Support in Northern Ireland’.

“We all know that people are living longer than before. In fact, by 2025, our over 65 population is projected to increase by 42 per cent and the over 85’s by 83 per cent. Let me be clear that our growing elderly population is an achievement to be celebrated. But when we consider that the likelihood of people needing some form of care and support increases the older they get, we can see that having a bigger elderly population in the future is going to put increased pressure on the system that cares for people in need.

“The case for change is clear. We simply cannot go on as we are doing and maintain an effective care and support system at the same time. So we must act now to ensure we have a fair, effective and sustainable service in the future. That is why I have embarked on a process of reform with the launch of the ‘Who Cares?’ discussion document,” the Minister said.

“I urge everyone to read the consultation and join what I believe is a much needed debate. While care and support might not be something you are thinking about now, the likelihood is that one in three of us will have some form of care need after the age of 65. We simply can’t afford to bury our heads in the sand and this is your chance to influence change.”

The consultation document and details of engagement events being held across Northern Ireland can be viewed here.

Speaking at the Alzheimer’s Society’s conference, the Minister went on to highlight that the Health and Social Care Board has allocated £1million towards the implementation of the Dementia Strategy.

He said: “I want to ensure that people with dementia are treated with awareness and respect, especially by those providing services, and that they are supported to maintain their independence for as long as possible. Our Dementia Strategy recognises this and I am delighted to be able to announce that £1million has been identified to assist in the implementation of the strategy.”