WHILE financial responsibility for the NHS rests on the Welsh Assembly budget, care provision is the duty of local councils.
A shocking new statistic shows a frightening shortage of facilities.
Carers' week 8-14 June, is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring.
The aim is to highlighting the challenges faced by carers and recognising the contribution they make to families and communities throughout Wales.
The disturbing new report informs us that almost half of councils (48 per cent) are unable to meet the full demands for elderly care.
Across the UK today, 6.5 million people are carers, supporting a loved one who is older, disabled or seriously ill.
That’s one in eight adults who care, unpaid for family and friends. Within our lifetime, there will be nine million carers.
Meanwhile the number of children and young people across Wales who have to look after relatives is around bout 29,000 who are under the age of 24.
These individuals need all the financial, mental support and more by governments and local authorities.
They may not think it but they are my local champions and I admire every single one of you.
 
Andrew Nutt,
Heolddu Road,
Bargoed