Day of events this week to help support unpaid carers
A series of events are being held this Thursday (November 20) to support the thousands of unpaid carers in the borough.
North Tyneside Carers’ Centre wants to use Carers Rights Day to make sure every carer knows where to turn for advice, understands their rights and feels supported in their caring role.
Every day in the UK, 12,000 people become unpaid carers for a partner, family member or a friend – many of whom don’t see themselves as carers, often unaware of their legal rights and what they’re entitled to in terms of support and benefits.
The 2021 Census identified 19,683 carers in North Tyneside, with more than half providing 20 or more hours of unpaid care per week. It is believed there are many more.
In a direct appeal to the borough’s carers, North Tyneside Carers’ Centre said: “Our mission is to ensure that no unpaid carer in our region feels invisible, unsupported, or alone.
“Unpaid carers make an enormous contribution to our society, yet many don’t recognise themselves as carers or know the rights and support available to them.
“This Carers Rights Day we want to make sure every carer knows where to turn for advice, understands their rights and feels supported in their caring role.
“Every carer has the right to an assessment of their needs, advice on financial support and help to look after their own wellbeing. North Tyneside Carers’ Centre is here to help carers access the support they deserve, whether that’s through benefits, workplace rights or wellbeing support.
“Recognising and upholding carers’ rights is about fairness: ensuring every carer has the same chance to live a full, balanced life. This Carers Rights Day, take the time to find out what help is available for you and the person you care for.”
Events for carers on Carers’ Rights Day – Thursday November 20
Employment support for carers drop-in – 10am to 2pm
Working Well Hub, Wallsend Community Hub and Library
Meet our Adult Carers Team at North Tyneside General Hospital (Rake Lane) 10am – 2pm
Arranging and paying for your care – 1.15pm to 2.30pm
This will be a Q&A session on financial assessments, direct payments and paying for care. Held at the Oxford Centre, Longbenton.
60 Minute Essentials: Carers Rights – 6pm to 7pm online
This will be a practical and empowering session on the support and protections available to carers
- For confidential information, support and advice visit northtynesidecarers.org.uk or call 0191 249 6480.