SUPPORT for carers needs to be “higher on the agenda” of Welsh local authorities, according to a care watchdog.

As part of Carers Week, Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales (CCSIW) have released findings from a year-long investigation into the experience of carers.

The organisation have found that carers had received “very strong” support in some areas, but this support is “not consistent” across the country.

According to CSSIW, support for carers “has not been at the forefront of planning and delivery for local authorities and their partners.”

Parent carers for children with complex needs, and carers of adults with mental health needs, were two types of carers found to have “limited support”.

The investigation found that most local authorities had carers’ strategies in place but some have not been updated to reflect changes in the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014.

Other findings include some examples of “positive and innovative practice” in some parts of Wales, while funding for carer support services remains “largely short term”.

Some carers are not offered as assessment of their needs nor provided with information, advice or support.

While a wide range of information is available, these resources are not always easily accessible to carers – especially at “times of crisis”.

Chief inspector Gillian Baranski stressed that carers are “vital partners” in providing care and support for people of all ages in Wales.

“We recognise this important but often unspoken contribution and wanted to hear directly from carers about their experiences,” she said.

“We hope this report helps to re-focus attention and drive improvement in support for carers.”

Rebecca Evans, minister for social services and public health, is planning to listen to carers’ experiences and views as the Welsh Government presents the draft of its new Carers Strategic Action Plan.

The minister said: “The Social Services and Well-being Act gave enhanced rights to carers in recognition of the vital role they play in families and communities across Wales.

“This report, which provides the all-important carers’ perspective, will help everybody involved in supporting carers to assess whether this landmark legislation is being translated into good practice, and to take action to improve support wherever necessary.

“As part of Carers Week, I will be attending a round table event with carers to present the draft outline of our new Carers Strategic Action Plan. I look forward to hearing carers’ experiences and views, which will be used to develop the plan further.”