URGENT action is needed to improve the lives of carers who support family members with cancer, according to the MP for South Swindon, Robert Buckland.

He met with representatives from the Macmillan Cancer Support on Tuesday where the needs of the 905,000 people providing unpaid support for loved ones with cancer in England was discussed.

Half of these cancer carers are not receiving any help despite it having a substantial impact on their lives.

“The Care Bill places a welcome duty on local authorities to identify carers,” said Mr Buckland. “However this duty does not cover health bodies meaning cancer carers will continue to slip through the net.

“This is why I am joining Macmillan in calling for the Care Bill to place a shared responsibility on both the NHS and councils to identify and signpost cancer carers to support.

“The Care Bill represents a crucial opportunity to improve the provision of support for cancer carers and we must capitalise on this chance before it is too late.

By identifying cancer carers and letting them know what information and support is available, doctors, nurses and other health and social care professionals can have a positive effect on their quality of life, and improve their ability to carry on caring for their loved one.”