John Thurso highlights the good work of local carers
LOCAL MP John Thurso has teamed up with TV presenter Angela Rippon to support this year’s Carers Week.
The awareness-raising campaign, which runs this week, recognises the contribution made by those throughout the UK who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.
The theme for Carers Week 2011 is "The True Face of Carers". It calls for greater recognition for the diverse range of people who have caring responsibilities. The work they carry out is vital for their families and friends, and for their communities.
John Thurso said: "Thousands of people in the Far North sacrifice not only their time, but also their money and their health in order to care for a loved one.
"Together they save Scotland alone an incredible £7.5 billion every year. They deserve to be recognised for their contribution to both our local community and to wider society, and we don’t do that often enough.
"I am taking part in Carers Week to show my respect and appreciation for our carers. I also want to let them know that there are services out there to help them.
"Caring can be incredibly demanding, particularly in such a remote and rural area as ours. It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone."
Carers Week is organised by a partnership of nine national charities: Age UK, Carers UK, Counsel & Care, Crossroads Care, Dementia UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, MS Society, Parkinson’s UK and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers.
For more information visit www.carersweek.org