More than 9,000 caring for a loved one or neighbour in Redditch - The Redditch Standard

More than 9,000 caring for a loved one or neighbour in Redditch

Redditch Editorial 6th Jun, 2020   0

THE ‘Clap for the Carers’ on Thursday evenings may be officially over, but one Redditch group is continuing the applause.

June 8 to 14 is Carers Week and Redditch charity Carers Careline is highlighting the army of more than 9,000 carers in the town who, unseen and unpaid, look after sick loved ones, friends, or neighbours.

“There are now nearly nine million other carers across the UK who are still totally unrecognised because they’re working behind closed doors, who need their support,” said Fiona Mitchell, chief officer of Carers Careline.

“Nobody asks to become a carer. It’s something that just comes out of the blue and so many people are caring 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for year after year.




“We are only too aware of the more than 9,000 invisible carers in Redditch alone.”

The theme of this year’s Carers Week is ‘Making Caring Visible’ and normally the charity, which has been supported by National Community Lottery Funding, would be in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre talking to people, but because of Covid-19, that won’t be happening.


However the support has continued in Redditch with Carers Careline staff working from home so people do not feel isolated and alone.

“We know as coronavirus has unfolded, day-care has been made impossible, opportunities for even the smallest respite have shrunk, and the lives of our carers are being hugely affected,” said Fiona.

“If you’re one of these carers, just ring or email and we will point you in the right direction to get help or just have a chat with you,” said Fiona.

“We are still open. We also want to remind people about our monthly bereavement group as we are still offering support to those who have lost loved ones.”

If you are a carer, or if you have been bereaved and need some support, ring Carers Careline on 01527 66177 or email [email protected].

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