I hope it will soon become the norm for the old to be part of the mainstream of daily life
Is it something in the air of Halifax? Or is it in the air more generally? I suspect the latter. Millions of television viewers will be there tonight – Halifax that is – watching as Celia marries Alan, both in their seventies. The BBC television series Last Tango in Halifax, is a universal success, enjoyed by old and young alike. And in that sense marks something of a tipping point.
It’s the care and support we give each other. But for some, care is more than simple kindness, it’s day to day help to get Dad up and dressed, its advocating for Mum in the bank – and for some – giving up work or education to care full time. For all carers it’s about a lot of juggling.
That’s why I’m really pleased each year Carers Rights Day gives us all a chance to raise the profile of caring, to help people recognise themselves as carers and to highlight what is available locally. It’s a time to celebrate the contribution the city’s 25,000 carers make.
A trained pooch presses the paw-designed button to start the washing machine [ROSS PARRY]
He’s one of a breed of specially-trained dogs who can strip beds, fill laundry baskets as well as load and empty washing machines.
Now they are being taught to do all the laundry for their disabled owners with the new Woof to Wash machine.
They unlock it with the push of a paw on a bespoke pad, yank on a rope to open the door, load, close with their nose, then start the cycle simply by barking.
