Carers Rights Day 7 December 2007

A very successful (eighth) annual Carers Rights Day took place on Friday 7th December 2007.

To promote this year’s campaign, Carers Bromley held an event for carers and professionals at

Bromley Central Library, from 11 am until 3 pm.   Colleagues from Bromley Social Services, Bromley Alzheimer’s Society, Bromley Mind, the Local Pension Service, St. Christopher’s Hospice,

Harris Hospiscare, Bromley Mencap, Oxleas NHS Trust and Scope joined us in providing a wealth

of information, advice and support to local carers.   Free ‘taster’ stress-busting / complementary therapy sessions were also offered to carers during the event.

This year’s theme was ‘Caring Costs’, and the aim of the day was specifically to:

• increase the take up of benefits available to carers and their families
• ensure that carers access their rights under relevant legislation
• raise awareness of the needs of carers
• help individuals recognise themselves as carers,  and
• ensure carers are aware of and take up their new right to request flexible working.

The annual Carers Rights Day is an important event that highlights the fact that many people in

the borough may be missing out on the support and benefits they are entitled to for looking after a sick or disabled relative, friend or neighbour. Carers’ own health is twice as likely to suffer as a result of the stresses of caring and it is vital that they know their rights, to ensure that they receive the support they need.

Full details about Carers Rights Day can be found on the Carers UK website.