DAVID REES AM BACKS CARERS WEEK

David Rees AM today paid tribute to carers across Aberavon who look after an ill, frail or disabled loved one.

This week is Carers Week which aims to highlight the vital contribution made by carers to their families and their communities. This year, the theme for the week is ‘In Sickness and in Health” which focuses on the need for greater support for unpaid carers to help them continue in their caring role without facing ill health, stress or financial worry.

David Rees AM said:
“Caring for a loved one can be mentally and physically exhausting and place a burden financially and on family relationships. A Carers Week study found that 40% of carers had put off receiving medical treatment because of the pressure of role and 83% said they had suffered physical health problems as a result of acting as a carer.”
“Carers provide a vital role in our communities and it’s imperative we recognise their contribution and encourage employers, organisations and staff to support them as much as possible.”

Carers Week is organised by a partnership of eight national charities: Age UK, Carers Trust, Carers UK, Independent Age, Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, MS Society and Parkinson’s UK.
For more information about the events and activities taking place as part of Carers Week, visit www.carersweek.org.