Integrating Carers into the Service System: Six Strategic Responses

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses the mechanisms whereby the needs and interests

of carers might be integrated into the service delivery system. Over the

last decade, informal care has emerged as a major subject for research

and discussion, and much work has been undertaken exploring the

experiences, burdens and needs of carers. Carers are increasingly

recognised as central to community care, but little work has so far

addressed the means whereby their needs and interests might be

integrated within mainstream service provision. The mechanisms for

achieving this are underdeveloped. This paper puts forward six possible

strategic responses, and discusses the merits and demerits of each. The

responses are: taking evaluation a step further; consumerism; case

management; performance or service indicators; rights; and targets.

The issues raised in the discussion