Pressed relatives of the sick may receive strengthened support

About 1.3 million Swedes care for and support a relative who is elderly, has a disability, or is long-term ill. In the Tidö Agreement, a commitment was made to support relatives, and now the proposals are on the government's table.

The situation of relatives is about solving a public health issue. Every fourth relative also becomes ill, so it is important that society can support, says Minister for Elderly and Social Insurance Anna Tenje (M) at a press conference where she received the report.

"Someone to call"

One of the investigator Gunilla Malmborg's proposals is that adult relatives of long-term and severely ill individuals, who are struggling with responsibility and anxiety, should have a statutory right to a relative contact.

Someone to call, someone who can provide a supportive conversation, take the initiative to meetings with other actors, someone who highlights the relative's own needs, says Gunilla Malmborg.

Furthermore, a clarification in the Social Services Act is proposed, implying that relatives in general should be offered information and guidance, in addition to other forms of support.

Children's needs

The investigation also proposes that minor children of ill individuals should have strengthened rights. The aim is for more children and siblings to be offered support at an early stage when severe illness affects the family.

Children risk not being noticed early enough, says Gunilla Malmborg.

The investigation was also tasked with reviewing the need for a new support line for relatives, and concludes that it is more effective to support existing ones. However, a special information portal is proposed to guide those seeking help, for example on 1177.se.

Anna Lena Wallström/TT