Peredur Owen Griffiths has called for more support for unpaid carers during First Minister’s Questions.

The Plaid Cymru MS for South Wales East made the calls during Carers’ Week which highlights the immense contribution carers make to wider society.

Peredur also spoke to young carers during a session organised by Carers Trust Wales to highlight the problems and challenges they face such as a lack of understanding from teachers.

Addressing the First Minister, Peredur said: “Recent research has revealed that an estimated 450,000 people are providing unpaid care or support in Wales.

“That contribution, born out of love and affection for family and friends, is difficult to quantify.

“It's fair to say that this contribution to our community is immense, and it's hard to imagine where we would be without unpaid carers.

“Plaid Cymru acknowledges this incredible contribution as we mark Carers Week.”

He added: “The report that revealed this staggering statistic also found that 35% of carers surveyed said their health and well-being had been suffering as a result of caring.

“I note, in your answer earlier and in the Government statement this week, about funding for carers respite and short breaks.

“Given that more than a third of unpaid carers are suffering, are you confident that the funding goes far enough and will be used efficiently enough?”

In response, Mark Drakeford said “…there is always more that could be done if there was further funding that we had available.”

If you want to support Plaid Cymru and Peredur, please click this link.