Liberal Democrats set out plans to help young carers

The Liberal Democrats have passed new plans to address the pressure faced by young carers, including giving young carers a free bus pass.

The party's new Shadow Chancellor, Ed Davey, was himself a young carer for his mother before she passed away when he was 15. Reflecting, he said: "You have to grow up early as a young carer. As we saw today, without adequate support, being a young carer can hurt your life chances. We must demand better."

The raft of new policies include reforming the Carers Allowance so young people who undertake more than 21 hours a week of education can qualify for the allowance, and treating being a carer by learning institutes and employers as a diversity issue.

Liberal Democrat MP Ed Davey said "Carers devote much of their time and energy to selflessly looking after others. The additional burden on young carers of being in school without adequate support takes a toll on health and ambitions, so it is time to right the wrongs. The reality is that this Conservative Government simply hasn't done enough. However, Liberal Democrats are committed to providing the support needed so young carers have the resources and confidence to thrive."