'They all need more time off and support'

Published 11 Jun 2009 08:00 0 Comments

National Carers" Week began on Monday to campaign for better recognition of carers" work, more support, and a higher Carers" Allowance.

Carers do not have James Bond-style glamour or pay but charities say carers are Britain"s true 'secret service'.

One Whitley pensioner, who cared for her mother for nine years and now helps an elderly neighbour, said: 'Carers need more time off and they need somebody to sit with the person, if they can"t be left by themselves, so carers can go out. It makes you feel very isolated.

'I don"t feel I get enough help. I gave up my job and worked from home to help my mother. I was just relying on the money I made at home.

'Carers need more help because every person is different and needs a different type of support.'

The 10 charities behind Carers" Week estimate that six million people in Britain are caring for someone, some on a Carers" Allowance of £50.55 for a minimum of 35 hours, equivalent to £1.34 per hour.

This week Reading Borough Council and NHS Berkshire West have launched a three month consultation with carers.

Cllr Mike Orton, Reading"s community care and health leader, said: 'Carers do a vital job looking after their loved ones but they have needs of their own. It is important to get a much better understanding of these so we can support Reading carers in ways that matter most to them.

'Carers have the right to an assessment by social services to consider their own needs and what would help them carry out their caring responsibilities. We want to encourage more carers to come forward and make use of this service.'

A new council Carers In Reading information pack is tailored to the needs of the person being cared for, and includes information on services, financial help, employment rights and other support.

Where to find help:

Reading Borough Council www.reading.gov.uk/carers

There is now a Caring In Reading Information Pack directory of advice.

Pick up the Caring In Reading information pack at Carers" Week events, Job Centre Plus in Friar Street and the Carers" Centre in Cross Street. Alternatively call the council on 0118 955 3621 or visit www.reading.gov.uk/carers

Contact the council to fill in the carers" questionnaire.

Crossroads provides help in the home to give carers a break and is based in Norcot Road, Tilehurst.

Visit www.readingcrossroads.org or contact 0118 945 4209.

The Princess Royal Trust Carers" Service provides information and advice at its Carers" Centre in Cross Street, Reading.

Visit www.carers.org/local/south-east/berkshire or call 0118 950 3941.

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 11 Jun 09

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