MP pushes for unpaid carers to be given same vaccine priority as paid carers

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has written to the Health Secretary Matt Hancock, urging him to give unpaid carers the same priority for vaccinations as those working in care homes.

Paid carers are at the top of the priority list for the vaccine, while unpaid carers are in priority group 6.

Local charity Carers Support South Lakes estimate that there are around 12,000 unpaid carers in South Lakeland and around 56,000 across the whole of Cumbria.

Tim said: "The importance of carers was rightly recognised when those working in care homes were put at the top of the vaccine priority list.

"But just because someone isn't paid for doing this vital role, does not make what they are doing any less important.

"Many unpaid carers look after a vulnerable, elderly relative and if they themselves were taken ill with coronavirus then it would be a disaster for the loved one who they care for.

"If we really do value the work of all of our carers then unpaid carers must be given equal priority."