Newham Council raises awareness of un paid carers
Newham Council will be marking national Carers Week by raising awareness of caring, highlighting the challenges unpaid carers face, and recognising the enormous contribution they make not only to those they care for, but to society generally.
During the Covid-19 pandemic many residents have, perhaps for the first time, found themselves in a position where they have become carers to people who prior to lockdown were reasonably independent, but were forced to shield and self-isolate.
For many others in the borough, providing care and support for a loved one is nothing new. Newham has more than 24,000 unpaid carers, including 1,204 young carers, according to census records. A carer is anyone who provides unpaid support to a relative, partner, child or friend due to illness, disability, frailty, a mental health condition or substance misuse problem.
The theme for national Carers Week from June 8 to 14 is Make Caring Visible. Under normal circumstances Newham celebrates Carers Week by hosting opportunities for carers to meet up and share their experiences and have some much-needed pampering and fun. Unfortunately, this year the programme of activities has had to move into an online, virtual space in order to adhere to social distancing guidance.
Activities will include a Zoom dance class, yoga relaxation, a virtual tea and chat session and a pampering session. The Council has also helped to create a special wellbeing guide which can be accessed by any carer, including those who find themselves new to the role.
Councillor Zulfiqar Ali, Cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “This year more than any other in living memory we have had our eyes opened to the huge challenges many of our residents face of caring for our most vulnerable.
“Many Newham residents may have experienced, for the first time, the challenges of stepping into a caring role. So, it is fitting that this year Newham Council is renewing its pledge to support the many hidden heroes who every day, and without fanfare, support our most vulnerable residents. As part of our commitment to Carers Week, the Council is refreshing, in partnership with carers, our Carers Strategy so that we can strengthen and enhance the support available. We will be publishing this new strategy by the end of the year.”
The strategy will be refreshed by involving, listening and respecting carers, supporting them to maintain and fulfil their education and employment potential, and protecting young carers from inappropriate caring and provide the support they need to learn, develop and thrive.
Residents can contact the Newham Carers Hub, hosted by Carers FIRST, on 0300 3031555, or to find more information about Carers Week and the wellbeing guide visit www.newham.gov.uk/carersweek