Damien Moore MP has pledged to support unpaid carers across Southport during this year’s Carers Week, which ran from 7-13 June.
Carers Week is an annual awareness week which recognises the vital contribution made by people caring unpaid for family members or friends who has a disability, illness, mental health condition or who needs extra help as they grow older.
Damien Moore MP attended a virtual Carers Week event to meet with carers and hear about their experiences during the pandemic.
New research released for Carers Week found that 72% of unpaid carers have not had any breaks from caring during the pandemic. Of those who got a break, a third (33%) used the time to complete practical tasks or housework, and a quarter (26%) to attend their own medical appointments.
The six charities supporting Carers Week – Carers UK, Age UK, Carers Trust, Motor Neurone Disease Association, Oxfam GB and Rethink Mental Illness – are raising awareness of the impact of the pandemic on carers’ physical and mental health, as well as the social isolation they have experienced.
Southport MP Damien Moore MP, said:“Unpaid carers have been providing crucial support to friends and family members during the Covid-19 pandemic, often without any time out for themselves, and it is important that their
efforts are recognised and applauded.
“I am supporting Carers Week 2021 to ensure unpaid carers in my constituency are connected to the support they need and the breaks they deserve.”
On behalf of the Carers Week charities Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said: “Looking after someone can be a hugely rewarding experience but it often comes with its challenges, including getting the right support.
Many unpaid carers have sacrificed their physical and mental health during the pandemic and are desperate for a break. This Carers Week I hope all parts of the community – family and friends, employers, businesses, schools, health and care services – do their bit to make caring visible and show it is valued.”
Virtual carers’ events and activities are taking place across the country this week, and hundreds of people have already added their voice to the Carers Week campaign. To find out more about events in Southport or add your voice to the wall go to www.carersweek.org.
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