Please remember carers now carersweek is over!
If you’re a carer, take care of yourself too
Last week was Carers Week, and Members of Parliament and people around the country paid attention to the work done by carers who undertake the enormous task of looking after their loved ones every day.
The work of a carer is arduous and unrelenting. I recall my grandad steadfastly dedicating years to caring for my nan, and now my father-in-law is in need of complete round-the-clock care.
Many of us will find ourselves in the role of carer at some point and the impact it will have on our lives can be enormous.
For many it can affect their career prospects or result in a reduced income – perhaps because they have to work fewer hours.
For others, it will reduce the amount of free time they have – perhaps having to give up sporting or other activities.
For some it can cause a breakdown in relationships.Providing constant care for a family member is exhausting and mentally gruelling and can really take its toll on a person’s health and wellbeing. That is why respite breaks are vital.
Locally we have several excellent organisations that provide help and assistance to carers, and last week I visited a few of them.
The Heather Club, which meets for two days a week at Carey Baptist Church, provides respite for carers of the elderly or people suffering memory loss.
An excellent service is provided by the Herts Mind Network at the Hemel Hempstead Well Being Centre in Leighton Buzzard Road.
HMN runs a weekly support group, courses and counselling if needed. Visit their website at www.hertsmindnetwork.org for more information.
On Friday I visited the Kings Langley Community Forum – a new initiative aimed at building a caring community in Kings Langley and providing support for older people.
Friday’s community lunch was also attended by more than 20 local groups that offer support.
Carers Week is certainly helpful in highlighting the problems facing carers on a national basis, but if you are a carer and are having difficulties or can’t cope then the message is: You do not have to struggle on alone. There is help available – please take it.
No matter how much you love the person you are caring for, you are no use to them if you are poorly yourself.
It is vital to keep yourself fit and healthy – both physically and mentally.
So take a break from time to time, there are organisations who are only too willing to help.
A list of organisations is available on the Carers Week website www.carersweek.org. Many have a local branch.
Mike Penning is the Conservative MP for Hemel Hempstead. Contact his office on 01442 450444 or via www.mikepenning.com
