1. ‘Enabling carers to care’: proposal for an EU carers’ strategy
Marian Harkin MEP
on behalf of the
Interest Group on Carers
and
Eurocarers
Brussels, 15 October 2013

2. Why an EU-level strategy?
Member states face the same challenges in terms of long- term care provision
All member states need informal carers to prevent a collapse of their care systems
Recognition of the importance of carers/their contribution to care and well-being, society and the economy is growing
Social Investment Package: ‘huge potential benefits of EU-level collaboration and policy coordination in this area’
Differences between member states’ provision models and the roles of (in)formal care;
 Huge potential for exchange of experiences/ideas and good/bad practice

3. The strategy addresses:
Multi-dimensionality of care as well as life course
Areas which are relevant to enable citizens to care:
Awareness/recognition of the carers’ contribution/resource
Social inclusion/participation in all areas of life
Accessible and reliable information
Practical support and respite

4. The strategy addresses (2):
Health promotion and protection in health services/delivery
Combining care and work responsibilities
Safeguarding financial and social security rights
Training for core care tasks and managing complex medical procedures
Empowerment and capacity building

5. Elements and implementation: EU level possibilities
1 Inclusion of carers issues in health and social policy development: mainstreaming
Selection of EU activities with a potential to include carers :
Employment Guidelines and strategy
PROGRESS Programme
Health Programme
Chronic disease reflection process
European Social Fund (as regards training)
Ambient Assisted Living Programme (ICT)
Disability strategy
Gender equality initiatives
Social Open Method of Coordination
Horizon 2020
European Semester

6. Elements and implementation: EU level possibilities
2 Awareness-raising
A specific EU action programme on carers similar to action programmes in other areas(eg disability):
To ensure and coordinate an effective exchange of information, experience and good practice between stakeholders.
European Year of Carers?
3 Financial support
A number of current EU initiatives have funding potential to
Help build the capacity of carers in relation to provision of practical/emotional support and advocacy
Support exchange of information, research and networking.

7. Elements and implementation: EU level possibilities
4 Data collection and monitoring
Horizon2020 to research on carers in future calls for proposals
5 Legislative measures
EU competence is limited
BUT legislative action could be taken: legislation relating to carers leave
6 Inclusion of carers in relevant EU consultations, fora and advisory boards
To help assess proposed policies and initiatives for their impact on carers and their cared for.
Procurement policies:
Ensuring that impact on carers is taken on board

8. Conclusion:
Sustainable health and care provision systems do not work without carers.
Therefore, carers need support.
Specific and explicit EU-level action will support awareness and sound policy development.
Eurocarers and the Interest Group on Carers are ready to support such action