Family matters: counting families in

In line with the Carers and Disabled Children Act (2000), the DH has commissioned a series of projects to help in developing a comprehensive learning disability strategy. This report presents findings of a study undertaken by the Family Carers sub-group in 2000, involving a literature review and consultations with family carers in England, aimed at highlighting the experiences and perspectives of family carers, especially carers of adults with learning disability. The report identifies the concerns and needs of family carers and groups requiring targeted support, and goes on to discuss the rights of family carers and people with learning disability in relation to the government's strategic objectives. A series of recommendations are presented for improving services and developing partnership working at local level, and for national policy support for change. An annex lists members of the Family Carers sub-group.