Dewsbury’s Ward 19 show their support to local carers
To mark ‘Carers week 2011’, which runs from 13th -19th June staff, carers and service users on Ward 19 on the Priestley Unit at Dewsbury and District Hospital are taking part in a special information event to help raise awareness of the 6 million carers in the UK.
Ward 19, which is run by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, is a 30 bed unit for older people with mental health problems. Staff on the ward know all too that the carers in Kirklees and across the UK are, quite literally, indispensable. By providing unpaid care for someone they know who is ill, frail or disabled, combined they save the economy an incredible £87 billion.
To show their support to local carers the ward is holding an information day on Wednesday 15th June providing details of services that might be able to offer them extra help and support.
Representatives from Alzheimer’s Society and Admiral Nurses will be on hand to talk about the work they do locally and offer their expert advice on caring for somebody with dementia.
Members of staff will also be available to talk about the Mental Health Act and benefits and answer any queries carers may have about looking after a loved one.
The Trust recognises the valuable role carers play and runs special groups for carers at the same time as trying to put them in touch with other local organisations who can provide them with additional help and support.
Chief executive Steven Michael said, “It is important for us to remember the needs of carers as well as the needs of people who use our services, and support them as best we can. As well as running dialogue and support groups for carers, we also organise a variety of events throughout the year. Through activities such as carers’ treats days, information stalls and carers’ days out, we aim to not only highlight the issues carers face, but to also celebrate their vital role and let people know what support is available.
He added, "I hope local people take the opportunity to support Carers Week to raise awareness of the issues carers face, but to also celebrate their vital role.”
To find out more about Carers Week and how to take part contact info@carersweek.org or call 0845 241 2582
For more information about the Trust’s dialogue groups contact the inclusion team on (freephone) 0800 587 2103. There is also detailed information on the Trust’s website for local carers including how carers can get help and advice, carers’ assessments and ways to be involved in improving local services. Visit www.southwestyorkshire.nhs.uk