Carers from across Caerphilly County Borough and their families are being invited to take part in a series of events marking National Carers’ Week.
Beginning on Monday June 13, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Social Services has organised a number of events and activities for carers of all ages.
Cllr Judith Pritchard, cabinet member for social services said: “The annual National Carers’ Week is excellent in that it provides a real opportunity to celebrate the invaluable work that carers do day in, day out.
“This national week is also an ideal platform to raise awareness among the many ‘hidden carers’ to let them know about the help and support they could benefit from”.
“There are so many activities planned across Caerphilly county borough to mark National Carers Week, and I would encourage as many people as possible to come along and take part.”
Caerphilly MP Wayne David has also publicly backed the importance of National Carers’ Week.
He said: “Thousands of people in Caerphilly sacrifice not only their time, but also their money and their health in order to care for a loved one. Together they save this country an astonishing £119 billion. They deserve to be recognised for their contribution to both our local community and to wider society.
“I am taking part in Carers’ Week to show my respect and appreciation for our carers. I also want to let them know that there are services out there to help them. Caring can be so incredibly demanding.
“It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone.”
The activities and events on offer:
Monday June 13
An open evening will be held at Penallta House, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s headquarters between 6pm and 8pm.
Corporate Director for Social Services, Albert Heaney will be on hand to explain about the introduction of the Carers Measure, and what it means for carers in Caerphilly County Borough.
Carers will also be able to access free vouchers, entitling them to free access to most of Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Leisure Centres’ facilities throughout the duration of National Carers Week.
Light refreshments and a buffet will be available.
Wednesday June 15
The Protection of Vulnerable Adults (POVA) team will be on hand at the Caerphilly town’s Visitor Centre, The Twyn, throughout the day to provide some useful information.
Thursday June 16
Carers are invited to a fun and relaxing event at Penallta Rugby Club and Ystrad Mynach Park, between 10.30am and 2.30pm.
On offer will be pampering sessions, games of bowls, various other fun activities and healthy lifestyle sessions and tips.
Friday June 17
A ‘Singing for the Brain’ taster session will take place at White Rose Information and Resource Centre in New Tredegar between 10.30am and 12pm.
This will be followed by a disco for young carers at the Pontllanfraith council offices between 6pm and 9pm.
Saturday June 18
Carers are invited to come along and enjoy a special sing-along showing of Mamma Mia at Blackwood Miners’ Institute. Entry is free to all carers, although a voucher is required for entry. Friends are also welcome
For more information about National Carers Week and claim your film voucher, contact Hayley Smith on 01443 864 604.