Campaign launched to support for Northumberland carers in recognition of their 'hugely important' role

The campaign aims to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.

During the coronavirus pandemic, communities have come together more than ever to ensure support is there for the elderly, vulnerable and others who are self-isolating.

A carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to a family member or friend who has a disability, mental or physical illness, substance misuse issue, or who needs extra help as they grow older.

The campaign also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

This year it is inviting people and organisations to make a pledge in support of carers.

Northumberland County Council is making its own pledge, and inviting others to do the same.

Coun Veronica Jones, cabinet member for adult wellbeing and health, said: “Carers play a hugely important role in our society - and as a council we wish to do everything we can to support them.

“As part of this campaign we want to pledge that, together with our partners, we will ensure that we provide advice and information as well as supporting carers to maintain their own health, and allow them to balance caring with other aspects of their life, such as work and family.

“We will do everything we can to ensure that this pledge is a reality.”

Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK said: “With as many as one in six adults in the UK now taking on an unpaid caring role it is high time our society recognises and values the crucial support they provide.

“Many unpaid carers struggle alone without support. If we are to combat the loneliness epidemic facing them it is imperative that everyone – Government, employers, health and care professionals, schools and universities, and each of us individually – plays a role putting carers in touch with practical and financial help.”

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