People in Bolton who look after a family member, loved one, friend, or neighbour are being invited to free events throughout this week to celebrate their hard work and dedication.
Carers’ Week (9-15 June) 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.
The theme for Carer’s Week is "Caring About Equality", tackling the inequalities faced by carers such as increased poverty, social isolation, and ill health, by promoting more support and resources which can help them.
Bolton Council, together with Bolton Carers Support, are holding a Carers Information Day on Thursday, 12 June, 10am to 3pm, in the Lancaster Suite, Albert Halls, Bolton.
The day is focused on bringing local carers and their families together, and offering practical support which can help them live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
The event promotes a more positive and healthy balance in life between caring work, financial pressures, and physical and mental health for all in Bolton.
With more than 25 stall holders at the event there is information, advice and support covering everyone’s needs whether they are professional carers, or volunteers caring for their loved ones at home.
Free refreshments and a light lunch are provided at Thursday’s Carers’ Information Day, and visitors can simply drop in any time during the event.
Other local events taking place across Bolton include:
- Monday, 10.30am to 1pm, The Hub, Westhoughton, BL5 3DS
- Tuesday,10am to 12noon The Mill Coffee House, BL2 6QE
- Wednesday, 10am to 12oon Thicketford Centre, BL2 2LW
If you look after someone, we encourage you to come along to the events; and tell us what issues affect you; how we can help you access the right support; what services and information you would like in your area; or speak to a social worker and other professionals.
Georgette Kay, Chief Officer at Bolton Carers Support said:
“A caring role can sometimes build up gradually over time so often people don’t see themselves as being carers.
“We are using Carers Week to highlight the issues which affect carers every day of the year, be it navigating health and social care or the importance of carers looking after their own health and wellbeing.
“Carers are often isolated, so we want to reach out to as many carers and let them know support is available to them.”
Cllr Sean Fielding, Executive Member for Adults at Bolton Council, said:
“There are about 25,980 carers in Bolton, providing care and support to thousands of people’s across the borough.
“Often working with little or no pay, carers face inequalities with pressure on their spare time, finances, health and relationships, and Carer’s Week helps remind us of how important this role is to us all.
“I would like to thank all carers for the incredible work they do, and the difference they make to many people across Bolton and seek any additional help and support they need.”
If you are a carer, it is important that you access the support and advice available, and take time to look after your own physical health and mental wellbeing.
For more information visit Bolton Carers Support at www.boltoncarers.org.uk, call the 24/7 helpline on 01204 363056, or for a chat email info@boltoncarers.org.uk.