Joan is seen with Miss Great Britain, Preeti Desai another supporter of Carers Week.

This week is national Carer’s Week. It is an annual event that raises awareness of carers – people who look after a sick or disabled friend, partner or relative – and the issues that affect these hard working people.  During this year’s week, thousands of events will take place up and down the country to give carers a break and to highlight both their work and the support which is available to them.  Here in the constituency, North Staffordshire Carers always do a wonderful job and coordinate a busy schedule.

I take pride in the links that I have with many local groups, and I think that my position as honorary president of North Staffordshire Carers is a really important one. The organisation does sterling work in offering advice and support for the thousands of local people who care for a loved one who is less fortunate.  Carers week is a chance for all of us locally show some gratitude for this hard work.

I am taking part in the week both at a national and local level.  In Parliament I have signed the Early Day Motion that reminds Government of what unsung heroes many carers are. Carers make an invaluable contribution to society and actually save the Exchequer billions of pounds each year. There is no doubt that it’s vital that these hard working people get the support they need to continue caring whilst leading fulfilling lives of their own. 

Locally, North Staffordshire Carers are organising a Well Being Fair tomorrow (14 June). I hope that people from around North Staffordshire will go along to the marquee at Trentham Gardens for the information and advice as well as the chance to have a good break – with yoga, health checks, walks and demonstrations.

But it is important to remember that there is help and support available for carers year round.  For example, North Staffs Carers organise phone lines to help people coping on their own.  They give advice on people’s benefit entitlement and give support to young carers.  They also arrange monthly pampering sessions, to give carers a chance for a free lunch, a good chat and a massage or aromatherapy session. So I would urge anyone in the constituency who looks after a friend, relative or partner to contact North Staffs Carers as soon as possible.

As always, I would be happy to hear from any constituents living in Stoke-on-Trent North. For more information and for details of what events are happening locally for carers please phone 01782 831 615 or check www.carersfirst.com