LOCAL MP BACKS INITIATIVE TO HIGHLIGHT THE PLIGHT OF MILLIONS OF UK CARERS

Eddie McGrady MP has shown his support for carers in South Down who are amongst the six million people in the UK who tirelessly devote their time, efforts and energy to looking after a loved one. Mr McGrady is supporting Carers Week and paying tribute to the huge contribution thatcarers make, every day of the year, to those they look after, and to their communities. The week – now in its 14th year – tackles the issue of carers’ health with a hard-hitting campaign headlining the sobering fact that; “Carers can’t afford to be ill.”   A national survey of 2,000 carers reveals that a large majority feel their health is worse as a result of the strain of caring (for many, up to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). The full results of the survey – to be released across the UK at the start of Carers Week (9 June) - also highlights that many carers frequently neglect their health, and often have no-one to talk to about their concerns or daily difficulties. Supported by MPs, celebrities, local stakeholders and thousands of carers across the UK, Carers Week (9-15 June) aims to publicise that support, advice and practical help is available for those who may be feeling isolated, exhausted or ill as a result of their caring responsibilities.  Mr McGrady said: “There are six million carers in the UK, including many in South Down, and I am pleased to be able to offer my support to them. It is a nationwide issue that affects so many people at a local level and it is vital we can get the message out to our carers that help and support is available.  “I hope that by drawing attention to Carers Week, many more of my constituents who spend their lives looking after others will realise they are not alone and that there are people who want to care about them, too.”  Mr McGrady has also signed up to a parliamentary motion (EDM 1369) which publicises the fact that large numbers of carers are not known to statutory agencies, and their health needs are often overlooked.