Islington’s 13,000 carers are being celebrated during Carers Week (8-12 June) for the unpaid work they do 365 days a year looking after 13,500 people.
There are estimated to be six million carers in the UK – an unseen ‘workforce’ that saves the UK economy over £87 billion each year.
A Council Spokesman said:
"Many carers modestly just ‘get on with it’ but in fact they are the unseen and unsung heroes of Islington – offering a better quality of life to those they look after.
"Retaining their independence is something many older and disabled residents value highly. So this week’s celebrations will also acknowledge carers’ role in enabling people to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.
"They truly are Islington’s ‘secret service’; we couldn’t do without them and we want to say a huge ‘thank you!’."
Islington Council works with NHS Islington, ICC, Centre 404, Alzheimer’s Society Islington, Age Concern Islington, Manor Gardens Centre and CASA to promote services for carers in the borough.
Carers offer a lifeline to their partners, children, relatives, friends or neighbours who could not manage without their help.
Those who need their care are vulnerable because of age, illness or disability.
Islington is launching Carers Week this year on 8 June with a walk to the Town Hall where Mayor Anna Berent will officially open events.
The walk to the Town Hall leaves at the same time from three locations in the borough at 10.30am: Centre 404, Central Library, and Islington Green.
Carers week ends with a party on 12 June.
For more information on Carers Week and services for carers, please contact Wendy Sharman at Islington Council on 020 7527 8154.
ENDS
Page Last Updated: 12 June 2009