Loose Women’s Lynda Bellingham has joined forces with Oldham Council and MP Debbie Abrahams to promote National Carers Week which launched today.
A number of events will be held in Oldham between June 10 and June 16 to raise awareness of the 24,000 carers across the borough and acknowledge their contribution to society.
Actress Ms Bellingham was keen to lend her support to the national event’s theme of Prepared to Care having cared for her mother when she had Alzheimer’s.
“I believe it’s vital that help is made available, especially when you consider that every day 6,000 new people will take on a caring role for a loved one,” she said.
“Carers in this country do a fantastic job and we must come together to support them.
“It’s fantastic to see MPs like Debbie pledge their support for Carers Week and carers in Oldham, Saddleworth and across the UK.
“Events like this ensure that carers stay at the top of the political agenda and it’s also an opportunity to remind MPs and decision makers of the overwhelming contribution that carers make.”
Ms Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, also cared for her mother who had Alzheimer’s and believes it can be a very worthwhile experience.
“Every day across Oldham and Saddleworth one in eight people will care for a loved one in some form,” she added.
“To demonstrate that we value the work done by unpaid carers, we must make sure we recognise the demands involved and do everything we can to make it as easy as possible.
“It’s also important to recognise the unique challenges faced by young carers who are often given huge responsibilities and can become isolated amongs their peers, often affecting them for the rest of their lives.
“However, we should also remember how rewarding it can be to care for a loved one and encourage those who are willing to do so to take up this responsibility.
“Carers save this country an incredible £119 billion every year, that’s why I believe must be Prepared to Care for our carers.”
This year’s theme aims to highlight how the UK’s current carer population is coping and how effectively the government is supporting the growing numbers of carers.
“I hope as many people as possible will get involved and help send a message to all carers that they’re not alone and that they’re valued by society,” said Angela Barnes, Carers Development Worker at Oldham Council.
For more information about the week-long event email [email protected]
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