Recognising and supporting carers is at the heart of a new strategy for Leicestershire – and residents can have their say on the plans.

With nearly 10 per cent of county residents saying in the 2021 census that they provide unpaid care, Leicestershire County Council says it has "listened to more than 300 unpaid carers as part of the new plan".

Now a call is being made by the chairman of the county council's adult social care engagement panel to give feedback on the proposals to help shape the final strategy.

Proposals for the council's vision include making sure carers are:

1. "Recognised, valued and listened to and supported to continue caring"
2. "Supported with their wellbeing and access services when needed"
3. "Given accurate, timely and relevant information and advice"

Martyn Colebourne, chairman of the engagement panel, said: "Our panel has lived experience of both carers and people who need carers and we know that anyone who has experience with caring has vital has vital knowledge and proficiency they can pass on.

"That's why I'd encourage people to look at the strategy and give their feedback. I know the engagement panel will giving our say on what's proposed to make sure it's the best it can be for our fellow carers."

The final strategy after the consultation and an action plan for Leicestershire will be submitted to cabinet in the autumn.