Young carers are set to benefit from a new support service which aims to provide help before a family reaches crisis point.

Charity Carers Bucks has been awarded a contract by Bucks County Council (BCC) to provide a new 'all age' integrated carers support service – which means adult social care, children’s services and clinical commissioning group services will be streamlined.

The service is aimed at carers from the age of five upwards and will be based in primary care settings - such as GP practices - to ensure people can access help quickly.

Cabinet member for children’s services at BCC, Warren Whyte, and cabinet member for health at wellbeing, Lin Hazell, signed the three-year contract on Monday, February 18.

Cllr Whyte, said: “Carers Bucks submitted a tender that is responsive to the changing needs of carers, supporting them through their caring journey.

“The contract provides support for young carers and forms an important part of the Council’s approach to Early Help. It aims to offer support to families before there is any negative impact on the

Cllr Hazell added: “Carers will be heartened to hear that there have been no cuts made to the carers budget.

“The council absolutely recognises the vital role that carers play in supporting people to remain living in their own homes.

“We also recognise that to perform this vital role many carers may need support."

The new service aims to ensure carers are supported to plan for the future, helps people build skills for independent living and will provide more intensive support at times of crisis.

In June 2017 BCC was announced as one of eight local authorities across the country that would implement an integrated care system (ICS).

An ICS aims to deliver more joined up health and care services, allowing the NHS to work closely with social care and the voluntary sector.