A CHARITY providing support to carers across the borough is celebrating 12 months since its launch during Carers’ Week.

Thurrock’s Carers’ Information and Advice Service (Cariads) was launched by then-Thurrock mayor Councillor Tony Fish on June 11 last year at the Beehive, Grays, after being established by Thurrock Mind, Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions and the Thurrock Centre for Independent Living.

Since that time it has helped more than 700 carers get back to work, uphold their rights in the workplace, get housing advice, receive training and counselling, as well as finding a place to share their experiences with others in support groups.

Lita Walpole, of Thurrock Mind, said it was impossible to overstate the importance carers play in society but that many do not realise support is available.

She said: “Most people do not see themselves as being carers, especially if it is a member of their family they are supporting, because they see it as their duty to look after a loved one.

“This is particularly the case for parents with disabled children, who ultimately see themselves as a parent and not a carer.

“They need to recognize themselves as a carer so they can be offered support to be able to carry out this very important and valuable role.

“Unpaid family carers save the government billions every year with the support they provide and, if the government had to find this money, this financial outlay would have an impact on the struggling economy country, which would grind to a halt.” The charity is based at Thurrock Mind on Bridge Road, Grays, but also has a presence at One Community in Tilbury, the South Ockendon Centre, the Thameside Complex cafe, the Chadwell St Mary Centre and the Open Door blue bus.

                                                                                                                      

Events being held by the charity for Carers' Week include;

  • Tuesday, June 10, 10.30am at Grays Beach Café

Tea and cake morning in a relaxing atmosphere with other carers

  • Tuesday, June 10, 1pm-5pm at Beehive Main Hall

Information and peer support day with a chance to talk with other carers and find out what support groups with other peers are available from ADHD, St Lukes, Stroke, Alzheimers and others.

  • Thursday, June 12, 11am-3pm at Stifford Clays Club

Well Being Day for carers to take a little bit of time for themselves and receive a little pampering.

The charity can be contacted in the following ways; Email – advice@cariads.info, Telephone – 01375 659172, Facebook – cariadsthurrock, Website – Cariads.info, Post – 152 Bridge Road, Grays, Essex, RM17 6DB