Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey visited a charity in Croockham village near Basingstoke to call for a comprehensive support package for unpaid carers.
Stepping Stone DS, a local charity that provides support to children and young adults with Down syndrome and their families, hosted Mr Davey as part of his tour aimed at raising awareness for better support for carers.
The visit was arranged by newly elected North East Hampshire MP, Alex Brewer, who was the CEO of Stepping Stones DS for a number of years before her recent election victory.
The Women's International Hall in Croockham is one of the many centres where Stepping Stone organises monthly coffee mornings for families of children with Down syndrome.
The visit started with Mr Davey spending time with the children and families for around 40 minutes, engaging in light-hearted activities before speaking passionately about his plans to continue pushing for stronger social care policies.
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He also praised Mrs Brewer’s work with the charity and spoke about the importance of supporting families caring for children with special needs.
"We need to understand that supporting carers benefits everyone," Mr Davey said.
"It allows their children to thrive and makes it easier for parents to contribute to society and the economy.
"Families with children with special needs haven't had the support they deserve. It was great to see positive stories here, but also sorry to hear how tough it can be," he said.
As part of the visit, Mr Davey reiterated the Liberal Democrats' commitment to being the voice of carers.
"So many people are carers for their loved ones—whether they’re looking after disabled children or elderly family members with dementia—and they don’t get the support they need. The Liberal Democrats are determined to champion their cause because it’s the right thing to do," he said.
Mr Davey criticised the previous Conservative government for their failure to reform the carer’s allowance and provide adequate support for those balancing caregiving with other responsibilities.
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He mentioned research conducted by his party, which revealed that a lack of support for carers is preventing many from returning to work, negatively impacting the economy.
The visit comes just months after Alex Brewer's historic victory in the general election, where she secured the North East Hampshire seat from the Conservatives—a major upset in a traditionally Tory stronghold.
Reflecting on her time with the charity, Mrs Brewer said: "I’m incredibly proud of the work Stepping Stone has done to support families. It was wonderful to have Ed here today to see firsthand the positive impact we’ve had."
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