AN OXFORD MP is calling on the Government to provide emergency funding to give carers a break from increased caring responsibilities during the pandemic.

In Oxford West and Abingdon, over 10,348 people are unpaid carers, who look after elderly, disabled or vulnerable people.

Read also: LTN trial in Cowley to be extended until NOVEMBER

Data from Carers UK shows that 64 per cent of these carers have not been able to take any form of break throughout the pandemic.

Now Layla Moran, MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, says carers need be given funding to allow them to have a much-needed break.

She said: “Those looking after their loved ones are doing a remarkable and important job in very difficult circumstances, they deserve recognition.

“Our unpaid carers have taken on dramatically increased caring responsibilities during this pandemic. Most haven’t been able to take a single break since the pandemic started. Most are simply exhausted.

“This Carers Week, Liberal Democrats are campaigning for our wonderful carers in my constituency and across the UK to be given a break.”

Carers Week occurs annually in order to recognise the valuable contribution carers make every day.

Read here: All the Oxfordshire pubs offering free pints to everyone this weekend

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey MP said: “This pandemic has shown that we are a nation of carers. But people looking after their loved ones are still too often forgotten and ignored by people in power.

“The Government must finally recognise the enormous contribution that unpaid carers make, and give them the support they deserve.

“Liberal Democrats are standing up for carers and working to build a more caring society as we emerge from this pandemic.”