Local MP Steve Brine has teamed up with ITV's This Morning celebrity GP, Dr Chris Steele MBE, to support this year's Carers Week (14 - 20 June).
Carers Week celebrates the contribution made by people who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.
The theme of Carers Week is ‘A Life of My Own’ with calls for greater understanding and support for the army of carers who provide vital care for their families, friends and communities. In doing so, many sacrifice much in their own lives, unable to do the little things that most of us take for granted. All too often, these unsung heroes also suffer ill health.
The new MP for Winchester & Chandler’s Ford Steve met up with Dr Chris at the House of Commons to pay tribute to carers, and to urge that local carers receive more support in their caring roles.
He said; “A trip to the cinema, or even a full night’s sleep – these are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers in Winchester. I am supporting Carers Week and all those helping to raise awareness of carers, and their priceless contribution they make to our local community. I hope that as a result of Carers Week, many more carers will find out about services and support that exist to help them. I know the website has a wealth of information.”
Dr Chris, who has long been a champion for the health and wellbeing of the country’s millions of carers, said: “I am delighted to give my continuing support for Carers Week and its focus on a carer’s right to ‘A life of my own’. Many non-carers take their free-time for granted, whether it’s going to the cinema or meeting with family and friends. As a GP I have met many carers who have never received any help or respite.”
Carers Week is organised by a partnership of 7 national charities: Carers UK, Counsel and Care, Crossroads Care, Help the Hospices, Macmillan Cancer Support, Parkinson’s UK and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers.
For more information, including local events and activities, and to find out where carers can access information and assistance, visit www.carersweek.org or call 0845 241 2582.
Pictured; Steve Brine is pictured with Dr Chris at the House of Commons (full rights of use permitted).
Pictured; Steve Brine is pictured with Dr Chris at the House of Commons (full rights of use permitted).