Council to roll out free PPE to unpaid carers in Luton

Unpaid care is care that is delivered by a family member or friend for those who, due to a lifelong condition, illness, disability, serious injury, a mental health condition or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.

Unpaid care includes a range of activities including delivering personal care such as washing, dressing, and feeding as well as help with chores such as washing, cooking, shopping, and cleaning.

Cllr Khtija Malik, portfolio holder of public health, said: “Throughout the pandemic, unpaid carers have played an invaluable role, absorbing and reducing strain on the NHS and providing support for those they care for.

“We welcome this national initiative which will support unpaid carers to do their job more safely. If you are an unpaid carer ( or know of someone who is) we encourage you to take advantage of this offer and contact us to discuss your requirements. ”

In order to provide support for the safety of carers and those they care for, the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) recommends that:

> Unpaid carers who do not live with the person they care for should follow the same PPE procedures recommended for domiciliary care;

> PPE should be made available for unpaid carers who live with the person they care of in the same house and who wish to utilise it, while acknowledging the impracticalities of co-residents wearing PPE at all times.

Unpaid carers who would like to access this provision for PPE can email [email protected] with details of their caring responsibilities and to discuss their PPE requirements. Guidance on how to use and dispose PPE can also be provided to carers who need it. For further information visit www.luton.gov.uk.