White Paper on Informal Carers of People with Cancer

On the 19th of October, European Cancer Patient Coalition (ECPC) together with Eurocarers gathered in the European Parliament to present the new White Paper on Informal Carers of People with Cancer. The event was kindly hosted by MEP Heinz K. Becker (EPP, Austria).

The White Paper tells the stories of those looking after people with cancer in the European Union. It is undeniable that these carers fulfil a vital role for our patients and health system. Unfortunately and unfairly, however, this role is often thankless and characterised by vulnerability and strain. There is a need to recognise the value of cancer carers and support them in the full breadth of their needs. The White Paper highlights these needs and rights of carers of cancer patients and testifies to the myriad challenges they face. The launch event was an opportunity to assess the achievements and shortcomings of the current policy framework with regard to carers, and identify ways forward for a fairer society.