MP Chris Bloore has championed Redditch charity Carers Careline which has been making a difference to the community for 15 years and is now facing financial challenges.
During the visit, Mr Bloore met with chief officer Erica Gibson Di Meo and the team to discuss issues facing unpaid carers and the essential role the charity plays in supporting people caring for loved ones.
Carers Careline offers advice, guidance and practical support to unpaid carers, helping them manage the pressures of caring responsibilities alongside work, family life and their own health and wellbeing.
Last week, through the Standard, Erica launched an urgent appeal for financial help to safeguard the future of the charity and the services it provides.
It currently provides support to some 200 carers and, in the past 15 years alone, has worked with more than 1,000 Redditch carers.
The charity also runs both a counselling and bereavement service and funds short respite breaks.
Unpaid carers in the UK are estimated to save the Government around £184billion each year – the equivalent of a second NHS – and it is Carers Careline that truly cares for those carers.
Erica added: “Demand for our support has increased by 85 per cent, yet the organisation is now facing a serious funding shortfall.
“Without urgent financial support from the community, local businesses and partners, Carers Careline may be forced to reduce or cease its work, leaving unpaid carers without the help they rely on, increasing the pressure on already stretched health and social care services.
“Continued support is now critical to ensure this long-standing community service in Redditch can remain for those who need it most.”
Mr Bloore said: “Unpaid carers are the backbone of our communities, often doing extraordinary work behind the scenes while facing real pressures of their own.
“It was a real privilege to visit Carers Careline and see first-hand the difference they are making to people across Redditch.
“Behind every caring role is a person juggling work, finances and their own wellbeing.
“The support that Carers Careline provides is absolutely vital in making sure carers feel recognised, supported and not alone.”
