Dame Caroline Dinenage, Member of Parliament for Gosport, former Minister of State for Care and Chair of the APPG for Carers, hosted an event in Parliament to highlight the role of unpaid carers to mark Carers Week.
The event welcomed unpaid carers from across the country, as well as a number of the charities which support them, to meet with MPs and share their stories, the challenges they face and explain the support that would make the most difference.
Carers Week runs from June 5-11, to celebrate the role of unpaid carers, looking after loved ones, often at great personal sacrifice. Over 5.7 million people in the UK are providing unpaid care.
Being a carer can involve many activities, including personal care, food preparation, mobility assistance, health care and emotional support.
Although support is available, many people do not identify themselves as a carer despite undertaking caring duties.
Many report struggling with their mental health, have difficulties accessing health care for themselves, and with the cost of living with many cutting back on work hours to fulfil caring needs. It is because of this that Carers Week is so important, to help individuals identify with being a carer in order to access the support they need.
Speaking after the event, Caroline said:
“I know how hard carers work day in, day out to look after their loved ones with disabilities, mental illness, end of life care and for many other reasons. It is a tough role to take, with many making great personal sacrifices.
“While every week should be Carers Week, it is a good opportunity to recognise the vital role they play, how much they save our health and care services, and to raise awareness of the challenges they face.
Caroline has previously served as Minister of State for Care from 2018-2020. The event was also attended by Minister Mel Stride.
