Published on Monday 05 June 2023
Carers Week, launched today, is an annual national campaign to raise awareness and highlight the challenges that unpaid carers face.
A carer can be someone of any age providing unpaid support to family or friends who could not manage without help.
Carers are typically family members, friends or neighbours who find themselves offering support which may gradually increase over a period of time or happens suddenly after an unexpected illness.
During Carers Week, a planned programme of events and activities will be available for carers, raising awareness of the support available locally.
These events will include an afternoon tea with various activities in Poole, a drop-in event for parent-carers and an online event for carers looking after those with a learning disability. A full list of events can be found on Our Dorset website.
The campaign also aims to raise awareness of the support available to those who do not recognise themselves as carers.
Residents who are looking after someone who is reliant on help for everyday tasks, are urged to register as a carer at CRISP Carer Support Service and with their GP practice to unlock support for themselves and their families.
Councillor Millie Earl, Deputy Leader of the council and portfolio holder for Connected Communities said:
"Carers Week is our opportunity to highlight the invaluable contribution unpaid carers make to the lives of our residents in need of help and support."
"We value our unpaid carers, who make such a vital contribution to our communities, and at BCP Council, we are here to offer support.I would urge anyone who cares for a loved one to recognise themselves as a carer and access support through organisations such as CRISP Carer Support Service."
Residents who are caring for someone who lives in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole can contact the CRISP Carer Support Service on 01202 128787 or email carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk. They can also visit crispweb.org for more information.