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15 May 00

POOLE CELEBRATES NATIONAL CARERS WEEK : 12TH - 18TH JUNE 2000

To celebrate National Carers Week, the Borough of Poole will be holding a number of organised events, aimed at helping and informing carers.

Carers are people who look after and support a relative or friend who is unable to care for themselves due to either illness or disability.

As well as a range of information events, conferences and workshops throughout the week, there will also be a free party during the evening of Friday 16th, where carers can meet in a relaxed atmosphere. Carers who are interested in attending the party or other events during the week should contact Val Mitchell on 01202 261174 or Lynne Payton on 01202 261170. Both Val and Lynne will also be able to advise carers about a new low cost service that will look after their friend or relative whilst they attend the party.

Val Mitchell, Carers Development Officer, said "Caring for someone can be physically and mentally exhausting and that's why it's important carers feel that there is support and help for them. During the week we will be hosting a number of events that will give people the opportunity to find out more about the type of services available to them".

As part of their continuing support, the Borough of Poole's Social Services will also be offering a free 8 weeks carers course, starting 27th June. For more information contact Val Mitchell, 01202 261174

There are an estimated 6.7 million people in the UK who are involved in looking after a family member or friend. It is also estimated that 51,000 children in the UK are involved in caring either for an adult or sibling.

Val Mitchell, Carers Support Officer, tel. 01202 261174