Westmorland and Furness Council is urging unpaid carers in the area to come forward and access dedicated advice and support as part of National Carers Week (10-16 June).
An unpaid carer is someone who selflessly cares for a relative, spouse, or adult who is not a relative but lives at the same address as the carer.
#CarersWeek is the yearly campaign aimed at raising awareness of unpaid carers and highlighting the challenges they face as well as their importance to the care of vulnerable adults.
The council is encouraging unpaid carers to seek support and guidance as well as adding their names to the map of carers across the UK as a way of connecting with other carers and raising awareness of the work they do.
Cath Whalley, Director of Adult Social Care at Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “My Dad is unwell at the moment and as a family we’re rallying around to give him the support he needs.
“Looking after Adult Social Care in Westmorland and Furness means my day job keeps me very busy, but I am fortunate that I am able to work flexibly so I can help care for him and give my mum a break.
“It’s a real challenge providing care for a loved one, especially when you consider how hard it is to see a person you love become unwell – which can have a real impact on your mental health.
“It’s really important unpaid carers ask for help are accessing the support they need and are looking after themselves, as well as the person they care for.
“If you think you’re an unpaid carer, please contact Carer Support Cumbria on 08443 843230 and access the advice and support you need.”
The council has also announced that they will be hosting a “listening event” on Friday 28 June 11.00am - 2.30pm at the Forum Theatre, Barrow-in-Furness.
This event will be open to anyone with experience of Adult Social Care or caring for an adult and will be an opportunity to share experiences of adult social care and work with the council to improve social care services across Westmorland and Furness.
If you would like to attend this event, please complete the online form or call 0300 373 3300.
Watch Carers Week Interview with Director of Adult Social Care, Cath Whalley.
Through the interview, Cath explains the struggles she faces daily and gives advice for any other carers who need support.
