Isle carers can find out what they’re entitled to at council event

In North Lincolnshire it is estimated that 18,161 people are carers who look after an ill, frail or disabled family member or friend in their day-to-day life.

Research suggests that over 5,500 people locally will become a carer each year. Many are not aware of the help and support available to them.

The event is an opportunity for carers to meet and share information about the support on offer to carers of all ages.

This includes:

Income, benefits and payments

Short Breaks

Carer breaks

Alternative therapies

Leisure and Health

Emotional and practical support

Carer groups and social activities

Training

There will be staffed information stands, activities, plus a range of people you can talk to. Free refreshments will also be available.

North Lincolnshire Council will also launch the ‘All Age Carers Commissioning Strategy’. The Strategy will outline the commissioning intentions for carers across North Lincolnshire to ensure that by understanding the needs of our carers, we can design, shape and transform services to meet these needs.

Julie Reed (pictured) cabinet member for Adults at North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Carers do a fantastic job in looking after their loved ones and friends, and deserve all the recognition they can get. But it can be a very challenging at times and take its toll on carers.

“Supporting carers and keeping carers healthy, independent and well enables vulnerable adults and children to be supported at home and in their communities. It also contributes to keeping families together.

“The very nature of caring means that often people don’t identify themselves as carers – they just think of themselves as a relative or friend helping someone they love or care about. Many are not aware of what support they are entitled to, to help them.

“The event aims to highlight the different types of support available and introduce them to other carers so they can share their experiences. Please come along, you will be welcomed with open arms.”

Caroline Briggs, Director of Commissioning at North Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “It is important that carers are supported to balance their caring role with looking after their own health and wellbeing.

“The new strategy acknowledges the wealth of expertise, understanding and quality of care provided by people every single day, right across North Lincolnshire.

“Taking care of another person can often take its toll and we want to make sure the right support is there to prevent what is often a full-time role having an adverse impact on the carer.“