• SHAHRAM Parvin’s letter (A care charity is forced to shrink for the sake of a private business, July 23), incorrectly suggested that Camden Carers Service (CCS) have had significant cuts to their budget.

In fact, there has been no reduction in CCS’s budget from the council since our contract with them was renewed in 2018.

The letter also refers to our partnership with Mobilise, who are a small organisation run by and for carers offering a range of online support, from regular contact through digital channels, “virtual cuppas” and even face-to-face virtual coaching sessions.

As part of our Covid-19 response we’re running a small pilot with Mobilise to test and learn new ways of providing support to carers who might not typically approach CCS or Adult Social Care.

This is aimed at reaching young adult carers and those from Black, Asian, and other ethnic minority groups. By doing this we would hope to be able to connect and support as many carers in the borough as possible.

In June Camden Council agreed this partnership with the online support service so anybody looking after a family member, friend or neighbour could connect with others in the same situation, share practical advice and access vital support.

This has proved to be a lifeline for many carers during this pandemic.

Mobilise’s digital expertise and use of social media is something that neither Adult Social Care nor CCS are currently able to provide.

Their offer is designed to be complementary to the support provided to carers by CCS and the two organisations are in close contact.

CCS are a fantastic organisation who provide a huge amount of support to the borough’s carers. We’re very fortunate to have brilliant staff and partners who have gone above and beyond throughout this crisis.

Working closely with them, we’ve delivered a strong preventative approach and together we will continue to provide the best possible care for residents throughout this challenging period and beyond.

CLLR PAT CALLAGHAN
Cabinet Member for a Healthy & Caring Camden