Bruce backs campaign for UK's carers

12.01.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 11th Jun 2007

Carers Week lasts from 11th - 17th June. For more information visit www.carersweek.org

Malcolm Bruce, MP for Gordon, has backed a Parliamentary motion in recognition of Carers' Week 2007 which starts today (Monday). The parliamentary motion recognises the six million people carers in the UK caring for loved one who is ill, frail or disabled.

Recent research has revealed the immense impact caring can have on every aspect of a carer's life including health, finances, career and relationships. Carers' Week aims to highlight the services available to help ease the burden of caring and ensure carers lives are changed for the better.

Mr Bruce said:

"I am delighted to be supporting Carers Week and hope that this week will raise awareness of the many carers who live in our local communities but can often feel socially isolated.

"In addition to the six million carers in the UK, I was shocked to learn that there are up to two million new carers each year, many of whom are not known to the relevant authorities and agencies who can offer support.

"I would urge people in the North East who are either carers themselves or are aware of someone looking after a loved one, to take advantage of this week and seek out information on what services and support are available to them locally by visiting the Carers UK website or calling Carer's UK on 0808 808 7777."

Carers Week, lasts from 11th - 17th June and the theme this year is 'My Life as a Carer'.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1) Carers Week is a partnership of seven UK-wide charities working together: Carers UK, Counsel and Care; Crossroads Caring for Carers; Help the Aged; Macmillan Cancer Support; MS Society; Rethink and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers

2) For more information about Carers Week, please visit www.carersweek.org