Message from the Chair: Dame Philippa Russell
I feel very privileged to have been invited by the Prime Minister to chair the Standing Commission on Carers. We have a major task ahead of us, but also a unique and probably 'once in a life time' opportunity to contribute to the national debate about the future shape of social care in this country. With major demographic changes, higher expectations of quality support amongst carers and a strong focus on self-directed care and independent living, we need new solutions to old problems.
I hope and believe that the Standing Commission has the potential to transform the future agenda for social care by putting carers at the heart of policy-making as equal partners in exploring new ways of maximising independence and developing high quality (and cost-effective) services fit for the 2lst century. It is a major challenge but I believe we can achieve transformation if we work together.
The Standing Commission on Carers has published its first annual report, ‘Carers at the heart of 21st century families and communities – work in progress’
The Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA) has appointed the members for the next phase of the Standing Commission on Carers. This follows an appointments exercise conducted in accordance with the OCPA Code of Practice.
The Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments (OCPA) has appointed Dame Philippa Russell DBE as Chair of the Standing Commission on Carers, for a term of three years. This follows an appointments exercise conducted in accordance with the OCPA Code of Practice.
The Standing Commission will develop the terms of reference for the next phase of its work in autumn 2009.
If you would like to contact the Chair or any of the members of the Commission or would like any further information about its work, please email:
Comprehensive online information, advice and support for carers, including: guidance on the different stages of caring, information for claiming benefits, advice for young carers, contact details for local authorities and support groups, news articles, and case studies with videos.
Carers looking after someone, or people considering becoming a carer, will find information at:
