Few carers will get Christmas break
5:40pm Saturday 21st December 2013 in Gwent news
The figures show that four out of ten out carers have not had any time off from caring in past year and 39 percent of carers have not taken a single day off from caring in the last year.
More than 80 percent said they put the health of the loved one they care for before of their own health and almost 60 percent said a lack of time away from caring led them to feelings of depression.
In contrast, when asked about the beneficial effects of respite, nearly half (46 percent) of all carers surveyed said it made them feel more able to cope and over a third said they felt happier and healthier.
The survey also highlighted the barriers preventing carers from seeking respite.
In the light of the survey’s findings, Vitalise will fully fund 50 week-long breaks in 2014 for people with disabilities and carers who have not been able to take any respite in the past year.
Vitalise is funding these breaks from its Joan Brander Memorial Fund, which was set up in memory of the charity’s founder.
If you would like more information about Vitalise breaks call 0303 303 0145, email bookings@vitalise.org.uk or visit vitalise.org.uk
http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/
