New Government Action Plan welcomed for New Zealand's Carers
The New Zealand Carers Alliance, which includes Stroke Aotearoa, has welcomed the Government's commitment to a new Mahi Aroha Carers' Strategy Action Plan, aimed at better supporting the more than one million New Zealanders who care for family members and friends.
Family carers play an essential role in communities across Aotearoa, supporting people who are ageing, living with disability, recovering from illness, or managing long-term health conditions. Yet many carers face significant challenges, including financial pressure, loneliness, and impacts on their own health and wellbeing.
Carers Alliance Co-Chair Janine Stewart says carers are the backbone of New Zealand's community care system.
"Community care and ageing in place wouldn't work without family carers."
Family carers provide support conservatively valued at $17.6 billion each year.
The Alliance is calling for the new Action Plan to prioritise practical support that improves carers' mental, physical, and financial wellbeing, including greater access to respite care.
For many stroke survivors and their whānau, family carers are a lifeline. Stroke Aotearoa supports the Alliance's call for greater recognition and support for carers, whose contribution helps people live well and remain connected to their communities after stroke.