Local MP, Caroline Dinenage, has joined calls to #MakingCaringVisible this Carers Week.
There are over 6.5 million carers across the UK who provide unpaid care and support to a family member or friend.
In addition to her role as the MP for Gosport, Caroline was the Minister of State for Care in the Department of Health and Social Care for 2 years from 2018. During this time she was able to meet carers across the country, engaging with key stakeholders and progressing work to ensure carers get the support and recognition they deserve, including publishing the first ever Government Carer’s Action Plan.
Care UK have created a wall of voices asking people to join their call to Make Caring Visible, which Caroline has added her name to and pledged her support.
She commented:
“I have been so lucky to meet so many unpaid carers who truly are unsung heroes, who dedicate their lives to the care and support base of their loved ones. I’ve seen what an immeasurable difference this can make to someone’s quality of life.
“Yet, all too often, this love and care can have a huge impact on a carer’s own health and well-being and goes unrecognised by wider society. Quite simply, every week should be Carer’s Week.”
Carers week runs from the 8th to the 14th June and was established 26 years ago by Carers UK, a care charity which provide advice, information and support for carers. It aims to celebrate and recognised the vital work of carers across the UK.
On behalf of the Carers Week charities, Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:
“This year it is more important than ever to raise the profile of caring and recognise the enormous contribution made by unpaid carers, who throughout the COVID-19 outbreak have played an essential role supporting friends and family who are older, disabled or seriously ill. I am delighted that so many individuals and organisations are getting involved with virtual activities, helping carers to connect to others and access advice and information.
“Looking after someone can be a hugely rewarding experience, but it sometimes comes with difficulties, including getting the right support. This Carers Week all parts of the community – family and friends, employers, businesses, schools, health and care services – should do their bit to make caring visible and recognise carers’ vital contribution to society.”