Author Archives: wendy
Carers to benefit from £3.9million new communications and support service
CARERS in South Devon are set to benefit from a £3.9million new a communications and support service.
People who look after others will now be able to access information, help, support and grant funding for short breaks, thanks to the Devon Carers’ initiative.
It was launched simultaneously across six different locations, including Kingsteignton ahead of national Carers Week.
Devon Carers brings together eight voluntary care organisations and charities in Devon.
Been a carer since she was ten years old
It can be difficult and frustrating that carers’ work goes unnoticed
Since she was just ten years old, much of her life has been taken up with caring for her disabled mother, but Tasha Turnbull says she wouldn’t have it any other way.
The 17-year-old student admits that now, as she gets older and her caring responsibilities infringe on her social life – and potentially on her opportunity to go to university – she can sometimes feel frustrated about being tied down to caring for her mum Cheryl.
But she adds that she “wouldn’t want a complete stranger caring for her” in her place.
“At the end of the day, she’s my mum, and it’s important that she feels happy with who is looking after her,” the Hartcliffe teenager says.
Carers tell of the challenges, sacrifices & rewards that come with looking after relatives’ children
Blood is thicker than water.
Jun 22 2012 By Craig McQueen
Catherine, Anne, Susan and George at the support group
GRANDMOTHER Anne Swartz knows only too well that blood is thicker than water.
The 58-year-old widow from Dumbarton cares for her three grandchildren, as her own kids were unable to cope.
As one of 20,000 kinship carers around the country, she knows the many difficulties faced by those who take young relatives into their care.
And with this week being Carers Week, shes asking for more recognition for the role they play in making sure the most vulnerable of children get the upbringing they deserve.
“I have two children who have got learning difficulties,” she said.
“In 2005, I took care of my daughters eldest daughter, who had just turned five and was two weeks into school.
