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30 Jun 06Recognising Those Who Care
Over 500 people in Poole benefited from the various free activities organised during a successful Carers Week 
which took place between 12th to 18th June.
Carers Week is a national campaign aimed at recognising and celebrating the contribution made by carers and reaching out to hidden carers to ensure they know where support can be found.
The activities were organised and funded by the former Mayor’s Charity led by Councillor Ray Smith. This included around 50 carers being treated to a day out to Abbotsbury Swannery , followed by a meal at the Mowlem Restaurant in Swanage.
Around 50 young carers were treated to a fun day out at Paultons Park where breakfast was laid on by members of the Northaven Yacht Club and a barbeque was also organised for 30 young people on Sandbanks by the beach staff.
Councillor Elaine Atkinson, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Community Support said: “Days out like these are a real treat for carers who work tirelessly all year around. We are very grateful to the local businesses and individuals who enable us to give carers the support and time to relax that they deserve.”.
Councillor Ray Smith, Carers Champion at Borough of Poole said: “It can be a constant strain to look after someone who depends on you and outings like this provide a much needed a break for carers. About one in six people in the UK care for someone on an unpaid basis and these carers make a tremendous difference to the lives of vulnerable people in our community.”
Carers needing advice about the support available to them can telephone Val Mitchell, Carers Services Manager at the Borough of Poole on 01202 261174.
To help give carers a break Poole Social Services fund a sitting service through the local voluntary agency Help and Care which can look after the cared for person for a very small charge. Carers can take advantage of this service by telephoning 0845 4500 418.
Val Mitchell, Adult Social Commission 01202 261174
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