SOLIHULL MP BACKS INITIATIVE TO HIGHLIGHT THE PLIGHT OF MILLIONS OF UK CARERS
June 9, 2008 1:25 PM
Solihull's MP, Lorely Burt has signed a cross-party motion in parliament praising the dedication of six million carers in the UK. The motion has been signed by over 200 MPs to mark the start of Carers Week (9-15th June).
Carers Week - now in its 14th year - tackles the issue of carers' health with a hard-hitting campaign headlining the sobering fact that; "Carers can't afford to be ill."
A national survey of 2,000 carers reveals that a large majority feel their health is worse as a result of the strain of caring (for many, up to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). The full results of the survey - to be released across the UK at the start of Carers Week (9 June) - also highlights that many carers frequently neglect their health, and often have no-one to talk to about their concerns or daily difficulties.
Carers Week aims to publicise that support, advice and practical help is available for those who may be feeling isolated, exhausted or ill as a result of their caring responsibilities.
Lorely Burt MP said: "There are six million carers in the UK, including many in Solihull and I'm pleased to be able to offer my support to them. It's a nationwide issue that affects so many people at a local level and it's vital we can get the message out to our wonderful carers that help and support is available.
"I hope that by drawing attention to Carers Week, many more of my constituents who spend their lives looking after others will realise they are not alone and that there are people who want to care about them, too."
A host of well-known faces are supporting Carers Week, including Paul O'Grady, Pam Ferris, Tony Robinson and media health experts, Dr Miriam Stoppard and Dr Chris Steele.
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats