Carers needing better support

Bolton West MP Julie Hilling is calling for better support for the UK’s six million unpaid carers

Ms Hilling has teamed up with TV presenter and former carer Fiona Phillips to launch this year’s Carers Week (June 18 to 24).

The theme for Carers Week 2012 is ‘In sickness and in health’ recognising the strain families are under as they see services cut back. It calls for better financial and practical support for the diverse range of people who have caring responsibilities.

The Atherton-based MP said: “I am taking part in Carers Week to show my respect and appreciation for our carers. I want to let them know that there are services out there to help them. It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone.”

Ms Phillips said: “From personal experience, I know caring can demand a lot of your time and attention, which in some cases can put pressure on other areas in your life.

“I hope that Carers Week can again make a real difference to the lives of carers in this country.”

Carers Week is organised by a partnership of Age UK, Carers Trust, Carers UK, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, MS Society, and Parkinson’s UK. For more information visit www.carersweek.org.

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