Carer’s Celebration Day looking after unpaid carers and young carers
Wednesday 20 March 2013
A day to look after hardworking carers
THERE are 16,000 people in South Tyneside who are classed as carers, according to a census carried out last year.
Together, with others across the UK, they save the economy £119bn per year.
Yesterday, almost 200 people of all ages who give up their time to care for relatives, gathered at the Little Haven Hotel in South Shields for Carer’s Celebration Day.
The event, which has been running for the past five years – two years at the Little Haven Hotel – celebrates the work of carers and gives them a day of their own to feel special.
Helen Duffy, direct payment manager at South Tyneside Council, said: “The event is just our way of saying ‘thank you’ to the borough’s carers who give up their time to look after relatives who need that bit extra support and help.”
Visitors were able to take part in a range of relaxation treatments provided by South Tyneside College, find out more about the benefits they are entitled to and what services are available to support them, as well as being entertained by the magic of Annerley Lord, also known as Wizardora the magician.
Older carers also had the chance to meet some of the borough’s young carers who spend their days juggling school and looking after parents who are ill or suffering from an addiction.
There are currently 500 young people registered as young carers in South Tyneside.
In a presentation given by Young Carers Project manager Karen Ahmed she told those at the event how proud she was of them describing them as an “inspiration”.
A slideshow told the stories of some of the young carers while images of the activities they have taken part in were shown.
Mrs Duffy said: “Last year’s event was such a success, and we just hoped this year’s event would match that – and it has.
“The feedback we have been given has been brilliant.
“Last year, the young carers came for two hours and people asked if they could come for longer, which they have this year. It was great to see carers of both generations interacting with each other.”
The event, organised by South Tyneside Council, was supported by welfare rights, Age UK, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Community Volunteer Service, South Tyneside Homes, and Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.
Coun Emma Lewell-Buck, lead member for adult social care and support services on South Tyneside Council, said: “There are about 16,000 carers in the borough, quietly caring for their loved ones day in, day out.
“Carers are often unrecognised, and may not even see themselves as carers. But it’s important to let people know that there is help and support out there.”
Carers’ organisations in the borough work in partnership to help people who are looking after a family member, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems.
n Advice and information are available from the Carers’ Association South Tyneside (CAST) on 454 3346.
