Carers Encouraged to Make the Most of their Rights at Free Event

Carers Rights Day

PEOPLE in Reading who provide unpaid care for a friend, relative or neighbour can access support and information at an event to mark National Carers Rights Day 2018 on Friday 30th November.

The free event aims to reach out to people who might not access all the support they are entitled to and also to recognise the vital role unpaid carers play in the wellbeing of the community. In Reading, an estimated 12,000 people provide unpaid care for someone who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction, cannot cope without their support. The event is hosted by the Reading and West Berkshire Carers Hub with support from Reading Council, local voluntary care sector providers, carers and charities. It runs from 10am to 3pm at Greyfriars Hall, Friars Street, Reading RG1 1EH. The Mayor of Reading will open the event at 10.15am. This year's National theme is: ‘Caring for Your Future’ Reflecting this theme, advice and information will be provided at the event, which will also feature a series of speakers including a representative from the Department of Work and Pensions, who will be talking about benefits for carers and local solicitors, Boyes Turner, will be talking about Powers of Attorney. There will also be information ranging from carers assessments and personal budgets; to using assistive technology and carer support groups. Information stands manned by community groups and charities will run throughout the event for people who cannot stay for the whole event. Light refreshments will also be available.

Cllr Tony Jones, Reading’s Lead Member for Adult Social Care, said:

“Many of us will be a carer at some point in our lives. Carers play an essential role in our community and they deserve the best advice and support in their role as well as help in maintaining their own independent lives. “Some people may not see themselves as carers or know they have specific rights and that they are entitled to additional social care support. I’d encourage carers to come along to this event to find out more about support they and their loved one can get to make the most of life.” There is no need to book but if people have any queries about either event, or help to arrange alternative care, please call the Carers Hub on 0118 324 7333 or email askhub@berkshirecarershub.org

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Carers

A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support. Anyone can become a carer; carers come from all walks of life, all cultures and can be of any age. Carers carry out unpaid household chores, help people dress or wash, give emotional support or arrange medical appointments. ‘Parent carers’ provide extra support because their child has a disability, and there are also many young carers who support a sibling, parent or other family member. Reading and West Berkshire Carers Hub offers a much needed first point of contact for people who provide vital unpaid care to friends, family and neighbours. It supports carers to get the most out of key support services, including carer’s assessments, personal budgets and health-checks. Adults across Reading and West Berkshire who are providing unpaid/informal support to loved ones who need extra help are encouraged to find out more at www.berkshirecarershub.org