MP calls for better support for carers

— Updated with Lincoln event listings for Carers Week and County Council info*

Fresh Lincoln MP Karl McCartney is calling for greater recognition for Lincoln’s carers, who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

McCartney teamed up with ITV’s This Morning celebrity GP, Dr Chris Steele MBE (pictured left), to support this year’s Carers Week (June 14th – 20th).

“A trip to the bingo, an evening match at Sincil Bank or even a full night’s sleep – these are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers in Lincoln,” said McCartney.

“I am supporting Carers Week and all those helping to raise awareness of carers, and their priceless contribution they make to our local community.

“I hope that as a result many more carers will find out about services and support that exist to help them,” added the new Lincoln MP.

The theme of Carers Week this year is A Life of My Own, with calls for greater understanding and support for the army of carers who provide vital care for their families, friends and communities.

McCartney met up with Dr Steele at the House of Commons to pay tribute to carers, and to urge that they receive more support in their caring roles.

“I am delighted to give my continuing support for Carers Week and its focus on a carer’s right to A life of my own. Many non-carers take their free-time for granted,” said Dr Steele.

“I know how carers’ own health and well-being has suffered as a consequence and just how isolated they can feel. Who is caring for the carers?

“Change is needed at grassroots level and Carers Week is vital in raising awareness and promoting carers’ issues,” Dr Steele added.

*According to the 2001 census, there are 66,000 carers in Lincolnshire, or 10% of the population. It is estimated that there are around 1,700 young carers in the county.

“Carers have always been integral to the general health of our society but until recently they have remained largely invisible,” said Councillor Graham Marsh, Executive Councillor for Adult Social Care at the County Council.

“Carers Week will help to highlight the developments made to provide better support and improve carers’ quality of life. We also want to reach out to ‘hidden’ carers who deserve recognition and make sure they know where support can be found,” Marsh added.

Lincoln events during Carers Week:

Tuesday, June 15th —

• ADHD and General Behaviour management workshop
  Supporting those who care for a child with ADHD and or challenging behaviours
  St Giles community Centre Lincoln — 9am-11.50am
• Display stand in Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Centre
  Outpatient Dept Entrance, Lincoln County Hospital Greetwell Road, Lincoln, LN2 5QY — 10am-2pm

Wednesday, June 16th —

• Open day for siblings and Carers, After school and play days, Fathers day raffle
  Meet other parents and carers affected by additional needs/disability in their families. Refreshments included
  Outer Circle Road Lincoln LN2 4HX — 10am-5pm

Friday, June 18th —

• Meet the Carers team day
  There is a free raffle, guided relaxation; aromatherapy, Indian head massagers, reflexology, information on tele care and a meeting to greet the carer’s team, there will be coffee and cakes
  Park Street Lincoln — 12pm-4pm
• Carers Connect Carers Day
  Come and meet the Carers connect team to find out more about the Carers Centre, our Specialist Benefits Advisor, Carers Discount Scheme, EELL’s and Carers Group Grants
  Age UK, Park Street, Lincoln — 12pm-4pm
  Waterside Centre Lincoln — 9am-11am

Full listing of events across Lincolnshire — PDF

Sources: Karl McCartney, Lincolnshire County Council | Photo: Karl McCartney