Six million carers get MP’s support

Bob Walter MP (North Dorset) has teamed up with GMTV news reporter and presenter, John Stapleton, to support this year’s Carers Week to celebrate the contribution made by people throughout the UK, who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

Bob Walter met up with John Stapleton at the House of Commons’ parliamentary launch of Carers Week to pay tribute to carers and to urge that they receive more support in their caring roles. With 3 in 5 people likely to be a carer at some point in their lives, and UK carers estimated unpaid contribution to the economy worth a staggering £87 billion annually, Bob believes it’s vital that society cares for them too.

Carers Week 2010 takes place from 14-20 June and campaigns for greater recognition and support for carers, to ensure that all carers know that they are not alone, and that help and services are available.

Bob commented, “A trip to the cinema, or even a full night’s sleep – these are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers in Dorset. I am supporting Carers Week and all those helping to raise awareness of carers. They make a priceless contribution to our local communities and deserve to be celebrated.

John Stapleton, who has cared for both his wife and his mother, said, "Working without pay and often with little recognition - many carers give up their lives as they once knew them, but never give up on caring. They are not the forgotten few, but the forgotten millions. This Carers Week, let's speak up for carers. Let's not leave them isolated and lonely, financially, physically and emotionally broke. Let's start caring for the carers, give them back a life of their own."

PHOTOGRAPH: Bob Walter MP with John Stapleton at the parliamentary launch of Carers Week