A group of carers who provide support to adults with learning disabilities and whose work has been affected by Covid-19 can apply for financial support following a Bath & North East Somerset Council decision.

As a result of Covid restrictions, overnight and daytime respite placements through Shared Lives had to cease leaving many carers affected and unable to take advantage of the Government's self-employed income support scheme.

While it remains the council's position that supplier relief or any other financial support is not available to self-employed individuals, the council has reviewed the situation relating to Shared Lives carers, and advised they can apply for supplier relief and their application will be assessed.

In Bath & North East Somerset there are 31 carers skilled and experienced carers who support 39 clients in the community.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: "I am pleased to confirm that our valued Shared Lives carers will be able to apply for supplier relief funding to enable them to continue the invaluable care they provide for some of our most vulnerable residents. Covid is affecting each and everyone of us both in health and financial terms. I hope this decision provides certainty for our Shared Lives carers."