Helping care for the carers
01 June 2009
To celebrate National Carers Week (8 -14 June), South Gloucestershire Council has funded a host of events across the district which it hopes will not only attract existing carers, but also encourage many ‘hidden’ carers to come forward.
The week of events ranging from creative writing to pamper evenings, kicks off on Friday 5 June with a relaxing afternoon in the garden of The Chantry in Thornbury with cream teas and therapies for carers and the person they care for.
Peter Murphy, director of community care and housing, said: “Many carers in South Gloucestershire may lack an understanding about what they do – some don’t even recognise themselves as carers. This may have a real impact on their health, finances, working and social life, and general wellbeing. There are many activities and services that South Gloucestershire Council provides to support carers and make their lives a little easier.
The council already offers support to hundreds of carers across the district, but realises that there are many more people out there who perhaps do not consider themselves to be carers and are missing out on financial and emotional support.
Carers Week is a perfect time to thank all the carers across the district who devote so much of their time to caring for others and also to encourage carers to find out more about what is on offer in a fun and enjoyable way.
Among the many events being held across the district is an information morning for carers at the Jubilee Centre in Bradley Stoke on Thursday 11 June from 10am to 2pm. Organised by South Gloucestershire Council, the event will be a one-stop shop for information including stands, workshops, goodie bags for the first 100 carers and also a buffet lunch.
Peter added: “South Gloucestershire Council recognises the huge contribution made by carers and the need to ensure there is support and information available to assist individuals in their caring role. This event will offer one-stop information and give carers the chance to find out what help is available to them without having to call the many organisations who are able to help.”
This year’s national campaign is supported by the actor Sir David Jason, who cared for his girlfriend before her death from breast cancer.
Sir David said: “Having been a carer myself, I am all too aware of the huge burden on those who are looking after a loved one and the daily struggles they face. Carers really are the unsung heroes of out society and all too often they struggle to get the recognition they deserve. I’m proud to be part of Carers Week and lend my voice to the call for more support and services for carers.”
