At the start of Carers Week (7-13 June) Solihull Council pays tribute to the borough’s 27,000 unpaid carers and the support provided by the Carers Trust Solihull.
Councillor Tony Dicicco, the Council’s new cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health and Councillor Richard Holt, the new cabinet member for Children, Education and Skills, have joined forces to say “I Care” and encourage carers of all ages to make the most of Carers Trust Solihull events this week.
Cllr Dicicco said: “Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities. This year, more than ever, I want to pay tribute to Solihull’s carers and thank them for the vital role they play in caring for family members and friends across the borough.
He continued: “The pandemic has created additional challenges and pressures for carers, with many feeling isolated. We are grateful to Carers Trust Solihull for providing a lifeline to carers, especially during lockdown. Commissioned by the Council, they offer support and advice over the phone as well as helping carers to keep connected through virtual events.”
Cllr Holt explained: “Carers Week is also about encouraging people who don’t think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support. This is often the case with young carers. I would urge any young people in this situation, or adults working with them, to find out what Carers Trust Solihull has to offer. To highlight the support on offer there are some great videos featuring young carers which you’ll find on their website or social media.”
Brandon Scott-Omenka, CEO Carers Trust Solihull, explained: "It has been a real challenge for carers in the Borough during the national lockdowns. Their resilience and devotion to their loved ones and neighbours has been at the heart of a community-based response, and should never be overlooked. Carers Trust Solihull are looking forward to restoring all our services to normal when it is safe to do so. This has already begun with young carers. But in the meantime, we remain there for all ages of carers by phone and zoom, to provide information and advice and access to a range of services and events. I am grateful to Solihull Council for their support during this difficult year. I hope everyone enjoys Carers Week and makes a pledge to value and acknowledge carers as the backbone of our Borough."
Carers Trust Solihull is encouraging people to show their support for carers this week on social media by using the hashtags #ICARE #CarersWeek #solihullcarers.
To find out more about Carers Week events visit the Carers Trust Solihull www.solihullcarers.org/carersweek or follow them on social media @solihullcarers.