'Backbone of our communities': Thousands of Lincolnshire carers celebrated during Carers Week
Thousands of unpaid carers across Lincolnshire are being recognised and thanked for the vital role they play as part of this year's Carers Week campaign.
Carers Week, which runs from Monday, June 8 to Sunday, June 14, shines a spotlight on the estimated 70,000 unpaid carers across the county who provide support to family members, friends and loved ones living with disabilities, illnesses or age-related conditions.
This year's theme is "Building Carer-Friendly Communities", encouraging communities, employers and organisations to better recognise and support carers in their everyday lives.
Lincolnshire County Council is using the week to highlight the importance of unpaid carers and encourage more people to get involved in supporting them through volunteering opportunities.
Roles available include telephone befrienders, digital champions and events organisers, helping carers access practical support and social connections.
One carer, Fred, praised the support he received through the Lincolnshire Carers Service.
He said: "When I first attended Chill and Chat, I felt isolated, unsupported and unsure where to turn.
"The Lincolnshire Carer Service provided a listening ear, guidance and emotional support, friendship and connection, and the confidence to move forward.
"I don't believe I would have managed the different stages of my journey without that support."
Coun Steve Clegg, Lincolnshire County Council's executive member for adult care and health, said carers were "the backbone of our communities".
He added: "All too often the challenges facing carers can be overlooked, but small changes can be of real benefit.
"Together, we can create carer-friendly communities, making a lasting difference to the lives of carers and those they support."
Coun Natalie Oliver, executive member for children's services, said it was especially important that young carers receive the support they need.
She said: "We all have a role to play in ensuring these extraordinary young people get the chance to achieve their aspirations like others their age."
Unpaid carers can access support through the Lincolnshire Carers Service, while a programme of events is taking place across the county throughout Carers Week.