Bolton Council takes opportunity to thank the thousands of unpaid carers across the borough for their constant support and the vital role they play.
Carers’ Week (June 7-13) is an annual campaign to boost the profile of unpaid carers, focusing on the challenges they face and the contribution they make to communities across the UK.
Many people don’t see themselves as carers so it is also a way to encourage unpaid carers to come forward so they can access much needed support.
In Bolton, recent estimates suggest there are about 40,000 unpaid carers in the town, of whom over 1,200 are young carers (but many more carers are unregistered)
Caring can be very rewarding but it can also be difficult, and the past year has been especially challenging.
The Covid-19 Pandemic has forced people to isolate, brought fear of infection and adversely impacted people’s mental health and wellbeing which makes the carer’s role even more demanding.
To mark this year’s Carers’ Week, Bolton’s Carers’ Support is putting on a host of different activities and promoting ways new and existing members can get in touch.
Members take time out to do things together and support each other.
Why not join them this week for a virtual yoga session, a ramble at Moss Bank Park or the weekly ZOOM quiz with prizes?
For more information follow this link www.boltoncarers.org.uk, call the 24/7 helpline 01204 363056 for a chat or email info@boltoncarers.org.uk.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Cllr Andy Morgan, said: “Every unpaid carer in Bolton makes an invaluable contribution to the local community and I want to thank each of them for everything they do.
“This week is an opportunity to show our gratitude but also to encourage those who look after a friend or loved one to come forward and identify themselves as a carer.
“The past year has been an exceptional challenge for both our unpaid and professional carers.
“I want to assure them that everyone in Bolton appreciated their continued efforts.”
Bolton Carers Support, Chief Officer, Georgette Kay, said: “Being a carer can be so rewarding yet so difficult at times.
“Many of our carers have to juggle their caring responsibilities day in day out, and time for themselves is often the bottom of their to do list!
“Many carers don't see themselves as a carers; they often just slip into the role, looking after the person they love.
“Bolton Carers Support wants anyone looking after a relative or friend to get in touch, as there is a lot of valuable support available in Bolton if you know where to find it – from a confidential helpline, courses and workshops to benefits advice, and our emergency card scheme.
“We encourage anyone who looks after someone, to get in touch sooner than later, and not wait until they hit a crisis point.
“If you live in Bolton or care for someone living in Bolton we are here to help - contact our confidential helpline on 01204 363056".