The important role that Hounslow's carers play in our community comes under the spotlight during Carers Week 2023.
Published: Friday, 2nd June 2023
Hounslow’s community of unpaid carers will take centre stage in the week beginning Monday, 5 June as the borough celebrates the role they play in supporting others.
June 5 to 11 is National Carers Week and Hounslow Council and its partners have arranged a host of events and activities all aimed at shining the spotlight on those selfless people who give up their own time to look after others.
A carer is defined as anyone who looks after a family member or friend who has a disability, mental or physical illness or someone who needs extra help as they grow older.
It can be adults who look after a relative, friend or neighbour, a young person who takes care of a parent or other family member.
The theme for Hounslow’s Carers Week 2023 is - Supporting carers in our community.
As well as celebrating the great work of carers, the Council and its partners want to let everyone know all about what help is available to them.
Throughout Carers Week there will be drop-in sessions and information stands at Hounslow House, The Treaty Centre and other venues.
The Council is teaming up the Brentford FC Community Sports Trust to stage a fun activity session for young carers. There are sessions for carers who are thinking of returning to work, along with Fresh Air and Friendship events, where carers can enjoy some of Hounslow’s great green spaces. The Council has also teamed up with The Alzheimer’s Society to provide events and activities for those who care for people living with dementia.
Hounslow Council has produced a groundbreaking video all about dementia care, entitled Glimpses, which you can watch here.
Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Health Integration, Councillor Samia Chaudhary, said: “Carers Week is a great way for everyone in Hounslow to recognise the fantastic contribution that these people make to life in our borough.
“There are many unpaid carers in our borough and many people who are looking after a friend or family member may not realise that they are officially carers and that help is available to them.
“Caring for someone can have a big impact on someone’s life, with many having to juggle their caring duties with looking after a family and work commitments.”
Cllr Chaudhary added: “We want to say a big thank you to all our unpaid carers in Hounslow. Please keep up the good work and get involved in Carers Week to find out how we can help you to help others.”
Cllr Chaudhary also issued a plea for Hounslow’s carers to come forward and tell the Council about their experiences.
She said: “We want to do all we can to support people. Please share your story with us, so we can get a better understanding of what it is like to be a carer in Hounslow. We would like to use these stories as part of our ongoing campaign to raise awareness about caring and increase the recognition Hounslow’s carers rightly deserve.”
- Unpaid carers in Hounslow can complete a Carers Assessment. This can help to identify needs and access additional support. Completing a Carers Assessment can help carers provide better care for their loved ones. You can find out more about Hounslow Council’s Carers Assessment here.
- There is also a range of information available about services for carers on the CarePlace website.
- For more information about events taking place in Hounslow for Carers Week 2023, click here.
- Carers who would like to make contact with the Council to share their experiences can email: harkiran.sandhu@hounslow.gov.uk
