Carers to focus on pressures of work

Jun 6 2008

‘CARERS can’t afford to be ill’ is the theme of 2008 National Carers Week which begins on Monday.

The national event will highlight the impact caring can have on carers’ health and wellbeing and will see organised events taking place across the UK.

Local organisation The Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre (Perth and Kinross) will be hosting a variety of information events throughout the week to which carers and those who have contact with carers are invited to attend.

Trina Crichton, Information, Advice and Support Worker explained: “Carers are an unpaid workforce in our community and are relied upon to care for those living at home. They therefore cannot afford to be ill.

“It is important that carers have the right information, advice and support when they need it. While there are many organisations in the community that can help, we would wish carers to access this information when they need it most.”

Events for carers will run throughout the week, opening with an information stand in St John’s Shopping Centre in Perth on Monday (9am-3pm).

Carers support staff will be available to advise carers on local services which may be able to support them in their caring role.

The Carers Centre will also host a bingo tea on the evening of Wednesday, June 11 in Perth to raise funds to support new complementary therapy days for carers.

The week’s activities will close with the launch of a new Perth-based carers support group called ‘Me Time’.

Carers are invited to attend the launch which will take place on Friday June 13 at 11.30am at The Gateway, North Methven Street, Perth.

Police Constable Alan Leitch will be present to inform carers of the community engagement work being carried out. Life coach Fiona Bartlett will also be on hand to offer carers advice on how they can help themselves. Refreshments will be available.

Those wishing to attend or requiring further information should contact Trina Crichton on 01738 567076.