SOLIHULL is staging events for the borough’s increasing number of unpaid carers as part of a national campaign.
Carers Trust Solihull (CTS) is working with Solihull Council to raise awareness of those who have their lives limited by caring for an elderly, sick or vulnerable person.
This year’s National Carers Week will begin on Monday, June 11 and numerous events are scheduled to take place.
To kick of events a 5K fundraising walk will go ahead on Sunday (June 10) at the National Trust’s historic Packwood House.
Registered adult carers can then attend a trip to see Summer Holiday – a musical based on the 1960s film starring Cliff Richard – at the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham on Tuesday.
And young carers can attend a Carers Week Party at Castle Bromwich Youth Centre.
On Wednesday there will be a conference for carers and professionals at Tally Ho in Birmingham.
The focus of the week is on supporting carers to stay healthy and connected.
CTS – a charity supporting carers since 2002 – says the number of carers seeking its support has risen by a third in the last two years.
It also estimates the population of carers in Solihull will rise every year by 1,000 – the number currently stands at 28,000.
Cabinet member for adult social care and health, Karen Grinsell, said: “Carers are vital to our communities and Carers Week is a great way for us to celebrate them and acknowledge the contribution they make to people’s lives in Solihull.
“Carers do a remarkable job caring for loved ones who are family and friends, and we are dedicated to building communities which support carers to look after their loved ones well, while recognising that they are individuals with health and wellbeing needs of their own.
“I encourage people to visit the events that are taking place during the week or contact CTS for information and advice on how they can be supported.”
Council and charity representatives will be visiting community venues throughout the week to help raise awareness of services available to support carers.
The registration for the charity walk begins at 10am and includes entry to Packwood House and gardens.
All funds raised throughout the week will go to supporting carers in Solihull.
To see the schedule visit: http://www.solihullcarers.org/carersweek/ or call 0121 788 1143.
